By PETER DOUGLAS
FEDERAL election time likely poses a win-win scenario for Monbulk sports-lovers – it’s just a matter of by how much.
Casey’s Labor candidate Hovig Melkonian has trumped his Liberal counterpart Tony Smith’s funding commitment for the planned upgrade of the Monbulk Recreation Reserve.
Mr Melkonian has announced an increased $750,000 pledge, if elected, which would wipe out any fund-raising Monbulk-based clubs would need to undertake to reach the target.
Mr Smith announced a $600,000 commitment just weeks ago, which effectively represented the final piece of the funds puzzle, with Yarra Ranges Council kicking in $1 million and the Victorian Government $600,000.
However, Mr Melkonian said his rival’s proposal still left a $150,000 shortfall.
“Labor’s $750,000 injection means the Yarra Ranges Council can begin the final planning and documentation, and ground can be broken within 12 months,” Mr Melkonian said.
“The Monbulk community deserves this project to be fully funded and shovel ready within 12 months.
“I played Under 16s footy for the Junction Eagles, and I remember torrential rain and hail while running around at Monbulk Recreation Reserve.
“While I missed out on the upgraded facility, the next generation of Yarra Valley football, cricket and netball players will benefit.”
Mr Melkonian said the Monbulk reserve was critically important to local sports clubs and the community.
Monbulk Primary School, too, would be a direct beneficiary because they often use the reserve for their physical education classes.
This Monbulk project includes upgraded changerooms and a gym, canteen, recreation room and greater storage capacity.
Presently, many of the core sports groups in Monbulk are unable to support burgeoning junior participation, not to mention its successful senior cricket, netball and football clubs.
