An 8000-seater football ground was proposed for Kardinia Park under halted council masterplan
A range of commercial options are under consideration for one section of Kardinia Park under a new masterplan amid an ongoing push for international cricket to return to GMHBA Stadium.
News
Don't miss out on the headlines from News. Followed categories will be added to My News.
A new football ground catering for AFLW and VFL and up to 8000 fans was proposed under a new masterplan for Kardinia Park before last year’s council elections put the blueprint on hold, it can be revealed.
This masthead understands the proposed upgrade could contain tiered embankments but a specific location has not been revealed.
Meanwhile, a variety of commercial establishments were also considered for the site’s southeast corner, including Quest-style apartments, childcare, restaurants and a pub.
This masthead revealed last year that a hotel was proposed for the same location, following several meetings between the City of Greater Geelong, consultant Urbis and various stakeholders.
It is understood a proposal for an indoor basketball and netball stadium for the site’s southeast corner came to light after the masterplan was put on hold.
It comes as National Basketball League (NBL) co-owner Larry Kestelman told the Geelong Advertiser earlier this month that Geelong would need a 7000-seater stadium first before being considered for a league licence.
However, Kestelman said a new team could have a similar social and economic impact on the city as the Cats do.
There is a view from some quarters that Kardinia Park is tired and the community is missing out on its maximum potential.
It’s understood promoters of music festivals, international bands and motorsport regularly inquire about GMHBA Stadium’s availability.
There is also a school of thought that local and state decision makers can look to the recent case of Adelaide Oval’s transformation as a model for the future in Geelong, in particular finding consensus between all stakeholders.
Kardinia Park is home to the Geelong Cats, the Geelong Football Umpires League for more than 60 years, the Kardinia Park Senior Citizens Centre, the Kardinia Park Netball Complex, the Geelong Cricket Club, St Mary’s Football Club and the Kardinia Aquatic Centre.
However, some stakeholders are concerned what a revamped Kardinia Park would mean for their future, with several netball courts proposed to be removed.
It comes as the Cats are currently working on a plan for a multipurpose centre, on Kardinia Park Stadium Trust-managed land, which would provide training facilities for its players.
The Cats are looking to build a $20m war chest with its Capital Campaign for future infrastructure, with the Costa family pledging $10m last year.
It is also understood there is a desire to bring international cricket back to the ground, especially the women’s national team.
In a statement to this masthead, Kardinia Park Stadium Trust chief executive Gerard Griffin said the site remained regional Australia’s best sports and entertainment venue.
“Our recent hosting of the Melbourne Renegades and the Matildas demonstrates the flexibility of this great community venue,” Griffin said.
“It is important that any future planning for the stadium and Kardinia Park balances the needs of stakeholders and we continue to work collaboratively with them to understand their needs.”
The City of Greater Geelong was contacted for comment.
Originally published as An 8000-seater football ground was proposed for Kardinia Park under halted council masterplan
‘Lock’: Scott gives update on stars as Cats cautious on duo
Chris Scott has delivered provided an update on Bailey Smith and Tom Stewart, the latter who completed fitness tests at training. And he has also shed light on Shaun Mannagh and Jack Martin.
Blicavs 300? Cats veteran sheds light on playing future
Mark Blicavs turns 34 this week, yet he remains an integral part of the Cats side. Coming out of contract at the end of the year, does he have the desire to play on?