Emerald’s Worrell Reserve is now officially open after undergoing a significant transformation.
Cardinia Shire Council officially opened the upgraded park on Thursday 15 April.
Two major projects were completed at the site, including a new pavilion funded by Cardinia Shire Council, as well as new sports oval lighting and high ball catching net jointly funded by council and the State Government.
The upgrades follow earlier works in 2019, which included oval resurfacing, drainage and irrigation works and a cricket practice net.
Cardinia Shire Mayor Councillor Brett Owen officially opened the reserve on 15 April with Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing MP and Member for Yan Yean Danielle Green MP, attending on behalf of the Minister for Sport.
Cr Owen said young people were already enjoying the upgraded facilities.
“Cardinia Shire prides itself on offering excellent sporting and reaction facilities so all residents can enjoy the benefits of exercise.
“The new lighting at Worrell Reserve will enable the club to use the facilities in low light conditions and at night, which means they will be able to increase sport participation opportunities for the local community and increase their membership numbers,” Cr Owen said.
The new pavilion has unisex accessible change rooms and toilets, a covered spectator area, and a not-for-profit gym for the community to use.
Cardinia Shire Council Ranges Ward councillor Jeff Springfield said the upgraded facilities at Worrell Reserve offer an abundance of benefits for families and young people in the growing area of Emerald.
“Council places great importance on encouraging sport and recreation in the community, and we’re always looking for ways the community can benefit from investment in new facilities,” Cr Springfield said.
Member for Yan Yean Danielle Green MP said the new lighting at Worrell Reserve also opens up more opportunities for female participation at the popular park.
“Better sport and recreation facilities make it easier for Victorians to get back to local sport and recreation and lead healthy and active lifestyles.”
Cardinia Shire Council funded the $3.17 million pavilion upgrade. The lighting, and high ball net were funded with $107,364 from Council and $100,000 from the Victorian Government, Sport and Recreation Victoria through the Country Football and Netball Program 2019-2020.
Worrell Reserve is used by Emerald Junior Football Club, Emerald Cricket Club, Emerald Community Gym, local primary and secondary schools and the wider community.
