Premier Denis Napthine promises $3.6m for Eltham North Reserve upgrade

PREMIER Denis Napthine has promised $3.6 million to upgrade the Eltham North Reserve if the Liberals win the November election.

The premier made a funding announcement a Eltham Redbacks Football Club in Eltham. Picture: Richard Serong

PREMIER Denis Napthine has promised $3.6 million to upgrade the Eltham North Reserve if the Liberals win the November election.

The upgrade will benefit the North Eltham Wanderers Cricket Club, the Eltham Redbacks FC and the North Eltham Scouts.

Dr Napthine said the upgrade would mean new players could be accommodated and the clubs would become more accessible for women and girls.

He said money would be allocated in the next budget.

Premier Denis Napthine announces $3.6 million to upgrade Eltham North Reserve with Eltham state Liberal candidate Steven Briffa. Picture: Richard Serong

“Currently both the Redbacks and the Wanderers are constrained in their growth by the limited space available,” Dr Napthine said.

“Traditionally, facilities were (designed) for men and boys and there is a need for a venue that encourages women.”

The Eltham Redbacks have 850 members, the Wanderers 300 players and the scouts 130 members.

Eltham state Liberal candidate Steven Briffa has a kick. Picture: Richard Serong

Redbacks president Ivan Dalla Costa said the club was happier with the Coalition’s offer than Labor’s $2 million offer made last month.

“This is a great opportunity because we have been working with the council for five years in developing sport in our region,” Mr Dalla Costa said.

“We are happier with this (offer) but we are very thankful to both parties.”

Premier Denis Napthine with Eltham Redbacks junior players. Picture: Richard Serong

Wanderers President Brian Steig said redevelopment for the cricket club had been 10 years in the making.

“The club has outgrown the facilities; they are 20 years old, the soccer club is one of the biggest in the area and we are one of the biggest (clubs) in the Diamond Valley,” Mr Steig said.

“The facilities are just outdated.”

In August, Labor promised $4.5 million for sports grounds and clubrooms in Eltham including $2 million for the Eltham North Reserve and $2.5 million for facilities at St Helena Secondary College and Glen Katherine Primary School.