Game’s on for soccer centre

WORKS for the Monbulk Soccer Centre are set to kick off with the official sod turning last Friday.
Stage one for the $9.8 million project includes two synthetic soccer pitches with lights, a new pavilion and a new car park and access road.
The event was attended by representatives from the Monbulk Ranges Soccer Club, Yarra Ranges Mayor Jim Child and councillor Jason Callanan, La Trobe MP Laura Smyth and Monbulk MP James Merlino.
Club president Lisa Doolan said the club was absolutely thrilled the project was moving ahead.
“We’re rapt – we’ve had great support from local government and State and Federal Government and we hope it will continue on as the project progresses through different stages,” she said.
“We’re very grateful for the support everyone’s given us.
“It’s just benefited our local community so much, our local primary school and secondary school will have access to it, it’ll be fantastic.”
Ms Smyth said the centre will attract key events to the region which will generate a local and regional economic benefit.
“It will create up to 35 jobs during construction and up to five jobs on completion, which will also have a positive effect on the local community.”