By Derek Schlennstedt
Seville netballers will be able to enjoy a safer and resurfaced court, with works at the netball courts at Seville having come to a close.
Funding came from the Yarra Ranges Council and the Federal Government.
Through the government’s Stronger Communities Program Federal Member for Casey, Tony Smith MP, provided $18,000 towards the project in February 2016 which was supplemented by $57,273 in council funding.
The works concluded on Thursday, 20 April just in time for Seville’s match against Yarra Junction on 22 April.
Included in the works was the re-surfacing of an area of the court and the painting and installing of the netball hoops.
Chancellor Ward Councillor Tony Stevenson said the project was a much-needed boost to netball clubs, which were often overlooked and did not receive as much funding as other sports.
“The resurfacing means the club can make better use of their investments in lighting and a shelter, and they will be better equipped to deal with growing interest in local netball.”
He also noted the importance of investing in women’s sport in the area.
“This project is about making sure there’s a good balance in our investments in sport, and that we work to address the long-term underinvestment in women’s sport,” Cr Stevenson said.
“This, and other netball court resurfacing works across Yarra Ranges, is a step in the right direction.”
Sevile is only one of several netball clubs that will receive the funding boost including Woori Yallock, Powelltown, Yarra Junction and Monbulk and Montrose Netball Clubs.
All received funding from council and the Federal Government for resurfacing or shelter construction, and Yarra Glen Tennis Club received funding for Hot Shots courts.
Federal Member for Casey Tony Smith said he was pleased and excited to see the projects nearing completion.
“I strongly believe that female sports should receive more recognition and funding. Our female athletes deserve to have great facilities,” he said.
Seville netballer Estelle Abbruzzese said the funding meant the club could better use its court-side shelter.
“Now, we will be able to use the sheds for the scorers and the team benches, so they don’t have to sit out in the rain and the wind,” she said.
“It will make the whole experience much more enjoyable and much safer, especially for players.”
“I’m hoping it will bring more members to the club.”
