Community
24 April, 2024
Community footy match at Port
A COMMUNITY vision for the Port Campbell Recreation Reserve continues to take shape and will culminate with a community football match on Sunday, May 5.
Port Campbell Recreation Reserve Committee of Management secretary Sharon Cotton said both the current, and past committees of management, have utilised funds raised within the campground to maintain and develop the facilities within the reserve to benefit the community and visitors alike.
“We are extremely proud of the projects we have achieved and will be handing over the completion of planned priority projects with funding to GORCAPA (Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority),” she said.
“Our projects that the community will see come to life include a new playground, outdoor exercise equipment and a disc course placed strategically around the reserve.
“Upgrades to both the oval’s centre turf, as well as the playing surface, will complement the picket fence project already being completed.”
Ms Cotton said the committee has committed to a number of varied projects in order to benefit as many of the local community members as possible.
“The ground renovation will generate an increase in user groups as well as benefit the cricket being played there by local club Nirranda, including the players competing for the annual Calvert Cup played between Port Campbell and Peterborough for many years every January,” she said.
“We feel all these long-term priority projects will be of benefit to the community for many years to come and will see the lower reserve continue to be utilised by a wide array of people keeping its status as a valuable community asset.”
After recently securing the cooperation of long-term tenant, Nirranda Cricket Club, Ms Cotton said the committee was confident money could be invested in the grounds, including the turf wicket and removal of the old pipe fence.
“Nirranda are extremely grateful for the supportive relationship built with the COM and are keen to continue integrating and working with the Port Campbell community long-term to maintain Port Campbell as their turf oval,” she said.
“The agreement between the COM and Nirranda CC will see a complete oval renovation thanks to financial input from the reserve and labour works completed by the club.
“The turf being used for the new wicket is the same as that used on the Junction Oval and also the MCG practice wickets.
“The renovation will be identical to that recently completed on Purnim oval, which is widely regarded as one of the best in the WDCA.”
The involvement in the WDCA will see players from across Warrnambool City Council, Moyne Shire and Corangamite Shire travelling to Port Campbell for matches.
Ms Cotton said many players opt to camp on the reserve and make use of the local businesses.
“It’s a win-win for everyone and a union that is valued by everyone involved,” she said.
With the official handover of the Port Campbell Recreation Reserve to GORCAPA now imminent, the committee have organised a community football match on Sunday, May 5 to celebrate the years of operation and growth thanks to the local volunteer management of the reserve.
“We extend an open invitation to anyone who has been involved at Port Campbell Recreation Reserve over the years to please come along as we reminisce on the achievements of all involved,” Ms Cotton said.
“This event will include music by local band Level Up as well as a free barbecue and drinks for everyone attending.
“The day will commence at 12.30pm with a barbecue and the match will start at 2pm.
“It will be a memorable day and a great way to celebrate all that has been achieved on the Port Campbell Reserve by the local community over many years.”
To a don a jumper in the community match, contact Brett Wallace on 0417 504 118.
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