A re-elected Albanese Labor Government will invest $3.6 million in the next stage of the Deloraine Football Club redevelopment, Labor candidate for Lyons Rebecca White announced.
The commitment aims to secure the future of the club at its current site, with the Meander Valley Council promising $400,000 towards the project. The redevelopment will feature new clubrooms that can double as a function centre for the community, as well as updated changerooms to accommodate the increasing participation in AFL in Deloraine.
According to White, the investment will help boost sports participation across all age groups, provide development pathways for young players, create a multi-purpose community space, and strengthen local connections through sport and social activities. Perhaps most importantly, the new amenities will be built on higher ground to avoid future flood damage.
White highlighted the importance of the football club in fostering community pride and engagement, particularly given the challenges it has faced in recent years with flooding and coronavirus.
“The Deloraine Football Club plays a central role in building community pride and bringing people together by supporting teams across men’s, women’s, and junior competitions,” she said.
Club President Anthony Clayton welcomed the funding, saying it would be transformative for young players looking to build their skills and succeed in the game. “This funding secures the future of our club, giving young players the facilities they deserve and ensuring they have every opportunity to succeed.”
The commitment has been met with strong community support, with local officials and residents welcoming the funding as a critical step in securing the club’s future.
