Local sports club claims ‘megastars’ are being put ahead of their kids

Sports groups are devastated they will be sent packing from their home ground under the Andrews Government’s master plan for Hanging Rock.

Juniors from Hanging Rock Cricket Club’s "not out" campaign, a last-ditch bid to stop the state government from kicking the club out of the oval they've called home for more than 100 years. Picture: Bruce Hedge

A local sporting club claims “multi-millionaire megastars” are being put ahead of kids in the proposed redevelopment of a key site at Hanging Rock.

A cricket club and other sports groups will be sent packing from a reserve that has hosted concerts by global superstars including Elton John and Bruce Springsteen.

Under the Andrews Government’s master plan for East Paddock, limited shows featuring the spectacular backdrop of the rock will continue to go ahead amid an upgrade of facilities on the site.

Macedon Ranges Shire Council, which on Wednesday voted to approve the land’s sale to the government, said that keeping sports clubs there had been considered by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP), and consultants.

Hanging Rock Cricket Club logo.

Hanging Rock Cricket Club president Peter Walsh said that being forced to leave its traditional home would be devastating for the proud club.

“We’ve asked how can multi-millionaire megastars from across the world be allowed to perform at the rock, but our kids who live across the road can’t have a hit of cricket there,” he said.

It’s massive for the community, it’s the only sporting facility in the area, it just beggars belief.”

Macedon Ranges councillor Geoff Neil, who opposed the sale, said that local sporting clubs were being sold out for “political expediency”.

“The precinct masterplan… is broadly telling our sporting user groups to go away,” he told Wednesday night’s meeting.

Sir Elton John performing at iconic Hanging Rock. Picture: Brett Schewitz

Jimmy Barnes and Bruce Springsteen performing at Hanging Rock.

Supporting the sale, councillor Dominic Bonnano said East Paddock’s continued use for major events would boost tourism, while telling cricketers their club still had a future.

“I have every confidence that an appropriate solution can be found so you can continue to play the game you love,” he said.

A state government spokeswoman said the draft Hanging Rock master plan was about safeguarding the rock and surrounding area to ensure environmental and cultural assets were protected.

“DELWP and Macedon Ranges Shire Council are working with the cricket and tennis clubs on transitioning to other nearby locations that will allow for better facilities,” she said.

“Should the draft plan be approved, there will be a transition time of about five years, allowing plenty of time to identify more suitable locations for the clubs, and plan for relocation.

Sporting clubs have known since 2018 that their activities were likely to be relocated in the longer term.