The Somerville Eagles Soccer Club’s upgraded home at Barber Reserve in Somerville moved one step closer this month, with $200,000 in funding delivered to the Mornington Peninsula Shire.
The upgrades will significantly improve facilities at the Reserve, including new covered areas, replacement of the current coach boxes, pedestrian upgrades, as well as a reworking of existing picnic tables to improve spectator and park-user seating.
Federal Member for Flinders, the Hon. Greg Hunt MP, said the upgrades at Barber Reserve would help keep the community active.
“Our local sports clubs are the heart of the Mornington Peninsula and I know this project by the Mornington Peninsula Shire and the Somerville Eagles will benefit our community now and into the future,” Minister Hunt said. “This delivered funding now means that their plans can be put into action.”
“Great sports infrastructure encourages people to get active and stay active. I’m sure the Shire is as keen as the local community to see this project take shape as we emerge from COVID-19.”
Somerville Eagles Soccer Club President Luke Mulder echoed Mr Hunt’s comments, saying “the Somerville Eagles are excited to see improvement works to Barber Reserve.”
“To have an area where players and fans can stand to get out of the weather is a very welcome addition. Also, improvement works to the car park and surrounding areas which get waterlogged in winter will make everyone happy.”
“We thank Greg, the Government and the Mornington Peninsula Shire for providing this funding. Mr Hunt has been great support for our club and has met us on several occasions to discuss how he can assist our club. We are very pleased and look forward to seeing how Barber Reserve will look next season.”
This funding delivers on a 2019 election commitment and is part of the Australian Government’s additional spending on community sports infrastructure, including around $150 million investment in female change rooms, facility upgrades and swimming pools across the country and over $40 million through its Community Development Grants Program.
This funding ensures communities have the facilities they need to enjoy sport and recreational activities.