Football Victoria took part in the official opening of the two-stage $4.97M Ewing Park redevelopment in the Greater City of Bendigo on Saturday, October 14.
Greater Bendigo Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf and Victorian Premier the Hon Jacinta Allan were in attendance at the opening, which featured a Community Come and Try Day.
Cr Andrea Metcalf said the redevelopment would allow for the expansion of walking football in the area.
“This has been an important project and a strong investment by the City and the Victorian Government to encourage residents to be active or just simply enjoy the parkland and all the new amenities that it offers," she explained.
“There are so many great things for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy at the park and we look forward to it becoming a key destination for both residents and visitors in the future.
“Ewing Park is within walking distance to the city centre and is easily accessed from the popular Bendigo Back Creek Walking and Cycling Trail making it very accessible off-road for many residents.
The Ewing Park Recreation Precinct Redevelopment has been undertaken in two stages to deliver a multipurpose community and sporting precinct that supports recreation and participation for people of all ages and abilities.
The $1.6M Stage One of the project was completed in 2020 and included:
- Construction of new oval with irrigation system and AFL standard competition lights
- Construction of a dual lane, synthetic walking/running track and picket fence around the perimeter of the oval
The $3.37M second stage of the project has included:
- A new district level skate park
- A learn to ride park and playspace
- A cycling trail hub shelter with repair station
- Outdoor fitness equipment
- Rebound wall and Bouldering/Climbing wall
- A new accessible toilet block
- Picnic/viewing area, seating zones
- New car parks in Havlin Street West and Harcourt Street
- Parkland areas with walking paths, barbecue facilities, seating, drinking fountains, landscaping and tree planting
The $4.97M Ewing Park Redevelopment has been a partnership project funded by the Victorian Government ($2.89M) and the City of Greater Bendigo ($2.08M).