Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Hub push reaches next goal

GOALS are being scored and fast for the proposed Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Hub, with New Gisborne courted as its home base.

The Erwin family get set to head out of town for their sport - mum Sue with Millie, William and Lucy. Picture: Rob Leeson

• Push growing for Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Hub
• Consultation starts on regional sports hub
• Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Hub push heads to council

MACEDON Ranges sports children could spend less time in the car and more time on court if a much sought-after sports hub in New Gisborne goes ahead.

A feasibility report conducted on behalf of Macedon Ranges Council found four to six courts were needed now to accommodate present demand.

By 2036, the shortfall will grow to 16 courts if no new complex is built.

The Otium Planning Group report concluded a regional sporting hub would be best built near the existing netball centre in New Gisborne.

CLICK HERE to view a copy of the draft feasibility study and have your say.

Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Hub spokeswoman Tamara Collins said it wasn’t suprising New Gisborne was chosen as the logical home for sports including basketball and badminton.

“The report has come back as we would have expected,” she said.

“New Gisborne is in the centre of the Macedon Ranges, it’s close to the Calder Freeway and public transport. You’d have teenagers who could get to the station and then ride their bikes.”

Ms Collins said the community feedback stage, now under way, was a chance to further build the case for new facilities.

Macedon mum Sue Erwin and husband Paul take three children to Sunbury several times a week for sporting pursuits.

She said the benefits of a local sporting hub were obvious. “We have to really think about what we can and can’t commit to as a family, despite really wanting to give our kids the chance to take part in whatever they’d like,” she said.

“While families who are in elite sporting programs might do this sort of travel, we are just trying to get our kids involved.”

She said the investment made sense because if there was a big central sports stadium, it was likely that’s where shopping and other commerce would be done.

Stage one of the project is expected to cost $15.5 million (for four courts) and stage two $10.2 million.

Macedon Ranges mayor Jennifer Anderson urged residents to submit feedback to the report.

“The physical and social benefits of participating in sport and recreation are immeasurable,” she said. “This study is about developing a shared vision with the community and ensuring that everyone benefits.”