Top soccer complex nears completion

Local soccer players are raring to play on the new $9.8 million Monbulk Regional Soccer Facility, which is nearing completion.
Construction is drawing to a close after the two full-size synthetic soccer pitches were installed and the pavilion – including club room with toilets, kitchen, change rooms and carpark – were completed.
The Monbulk Rangers Soccer Facility will begin training on the field in March, before the first game of the season on Saturday 25 March.
The centre will remove the pressure on existing soccer pitches in the south west area of Yarra Ranges, and will cater for 45 teams including about 650 members.
Yarra Ranges Council ward councillor, Tony Stevenson, said since 1999 the club had experienced major growth from 100 members to about 650.
“There has been huge demand for a facility like this in the community. The club was unable to take on more players for some time as they were limited by pitch availability at the previous venue,” Cr Stevenson said.
“This state-of-the-art centre will support the growth of soccer participation well into the future.
“More people will be given the opportunity to play soccer and enjoy the benefits of being part of a team and the positive impact of physical exercise on their health and wellbeing.”
Federal Member for Casey Tony Smith MP said the new facility would be of great benefit to present and future soccer players.
“The centre will be a valuable addition to the community and pave the way to encouraging more youth and community participation in sport,” he said.
“I look forward to attending many sporting and community events here.”
Monbulk MP James Merlino said that the new centre was a welcome addition to the area’s sporting landscape.
“Being involved in a team sport like soccer isn’t just good for your health; it fosters a sense of community. This new centre will make a real difference and I can’t wait to see the soccer centre when work is complete,” he said.
The new centre located in Old Emerald Road provides:
* Two full-sized synthetic soccer pitches;
* A modern pavilion with four change rooms for both male and female players;
* Change rooms include four shower cubicles and two toilets each;
* Toilets and club rooms;
* 133 carpark spaces;
* Road improvements
* Infrastructure including an accessible toilet for all ages and abilities
Yarra Ranges Council committed $7.15 million towards the project, and secured $2 million from the Federal Government and $650,000 from the State Government (Sport and Recreation Victoria) through Council’s advocacy efforts.