Upgraded Stratford Recreation Reserve Pavilion to boost local sport participation

The major makeover of the Stratford Recreation Reserve pavilion situated in Victoria’s Wellington Shire, is now complete and anticipated to boost local sport participation and revitalise community events hosted in the region.

The pavilion was officially opened today by Federal Labor Senator Lisa Darmanin, alongside Wellington Shire Mayor, Ian Bye (pictured above).

The $1.39 million project was funded by the Australian Government, as part of $17.7 million being delivered to Wellington Shire Council under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.

Works included upgrades to the existing pavilion social room, and installation of new amenities and a kiosk.

The upgraded pavilion cements a new era for Stratford Recreation Reserve, ensuring more events, sports matches and community gatherings can be enjoyed by the Stratford and surrounding communities.

Federal Labor Senator for Victoria, Lisa Darmanin noted “this project is a great example of what we can achieve for the Stratford communtiy when the Australian Government works in partnerhsip with Wellington Shire Council.

“Improving the Stratford Recreation Reserve is something the local communtiy has long called for, which is why it’s fantastic to see this upgraded pavilion now complete.

“These spaces are the heart of our community, by investing in the future of this versatile facility in Stratford, we’re ensuring that players in the local footy, netball and cricket teams have a dedicated space for games, and a vibrant hub to bring the region together.”

Mayor of Wellington Shire, Ian Bye added “With the new pavilion now open, more sporting clubs and local community groups have the chance to get active and participate in football, netball, cricket, and other sports – and there's a fantastic function space available for hire.

“The Stratty reserve is such an important community asset and whilst the venue has a fantastic playing surface and a great spectator area, the main pavilion and social club room needed an upgrade to ensure the venue's longevity.

“This new pavilion addresses that need and we thank the Australian Government for supporting us to ensure that the reserve remains a desired destination for sports and community events in Wellington and the whole Gippsland region.”

Image top: Federal Labor Senator Lisa Darmanin and Wellington Shire Council Mayor Cr Ian Bye join the community for the ribbon cutting; image centre: From left, Wellington Shire Council, Cr Carmel Ripper,Cr Marcus McKenzie, Cr John Tatterson, Federal Labor Senator Lisa Darmanin, Jeffrey Bourman MLC and Wellington Shire Council Mayor, Cr Ian Bye; image below: From left, Mia Johnson, Carmel Boyd, Paul Johnson, John Boyd, Elizabeth Johnson, Alan Boyd, Catherine Boyd and Sarah Bishop. The Boyd family celebrate the pavilion opening at the J. A. Boyd Stratford Recreation Reserve.