A new accessible, multi-purpose pavilion at Hazelwood South Reserve has the Latrobe City sporting community and Churchill Rams revelling in their new facility.
Featuring four unisex accessible change rooms, referee rooms, first aid facilities and accessible public toilets, the pavilion’s completion is a fitting homage to one of the region’s forerunners of football diversity.
As a founding member of the inaugural local women’s league in 2008, Churchill United was a significant influence on the growth of the women’s game in Gippsland.
The club also enjoyed an extended period of on-field success, inspiring a new generation of girls and women to tackle the world game.
Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence and Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing joined Latrobe City Mayor Kellie O’Callaghan to officially open the $1.1 million facility today.
Cr O’Callaghan said the pavilion was a timely addition ahead of Churchill United’s 50th anniversary of operation at the venue next year.
“Hazelwood South Reserve has been home to the Rams since 1973 and has become a bastion of the local sporting community over the past half-century,” Cr O’Callaghan said.
“Their support for female football, growing participation in active recreation and promoting diversity in sport has been inspirational and influential in our community.
“Council is proud to support the club with this significant upgrade to assist Churchill continue to flourish and foster football development for the next 50 years and beyond.”
Local builder Langden Constructions led the project, which was completed in June.
The project was funded by $1.1 million through Round 2 of the Community Sports Infrastructure Stimulus Program administered through Sport & Recreation Victoria and $100,000 from Latrobe City Council.