Box Hill Hawks fans will now enjoy a bird’s eye view of their team in action with the completion of the club’s new Southern Pavilion at Box Hill City Oval, Sports Minister James Merlino said today.
Joining the Member for Mitcham Tony Robinson to officially open the $1.9 million pavilion, Mr Merlino said the redeveloped facilities provided a major boost to the local sports community.
“The Brumby Labor Government understands that supporting grassroots sport is a key to building stronger and more liveable communities across Victoria,” Mr Merlino said.
“This redevelopment at Box Hill City Oval helps to ensure the future viability of the football and cricket clubs that use the ground.”
“This redevelopment at Box Hill City Oval helps to ensure the future viability of the football and cricket clubs that use the ground and delivers a better sporting facility for the local community.”
The new double-storey Southern Pavilion redevelopment features balcony seating overlooking the oval, a commercial grade kitchen, a function room, and two multi-purpose spaces.
Mr Merlino said the Brumby Labor Government had committed $600,000 to the redevelopment through the $10 million Improving Community Access to VFL Grounds Program.
He also congratulated Whitehorse City Council, the AFL, Box Hill Hawks Football Club and Hawthorn Football Club for their significant contributions to the project.
“The Brumby Labor Government is investing in developments like this as they are an important part of help strengthen the VFL as Australia’s premier state football competition,” he said.
Mr Robinson said the redevelopment now provided the local community with greater access.
“It’s not just the Box Hill Hawks and fans that will benefit from the new pavilion space – local clubs, schools and community groups will have access to the new facilities,” Mr Robinson said.
“Greater use by the Box Hill community also helps to encourage people of all ages and abilities to get involved in sport and create a more active and healthy lifestyle.
“By encouraging participation we can improve levels of physical activity, strengthen community spirit and enhance a person’s overall health and well being.”
Mr Merlino said other VFL grounds to benefit from the $10 million Improving Community Access to VFL Grounds Program included Casey Fields, Preston City Oval, Port Melbourne Cricket Ground, Sandringham’s Trevor Barker Oval, Werribee’s Chirnside Park, Williamstown Cricket Ground and a new ground at the Highgate Recreation Reserve in Craigieburn.
“This is all part of our plan to ensure more economically sustainable VFL football clubs are able to nurture and provide pathways for up-and-coming talent, while encouraging participation across the state.”