Dobson Park’s new cricket nets officially opened

Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino, Bayswater MP Jackson Taylor, President of Upper Ferntree Gully Cricket Club Andrew Petrie, Cr. Meagan Baker and President of Upper Ferntree Gully Junior Football Club Andrew McLean at the opening. Picture: SUPPLIED

Four new cricket nets have been opened at Dobson Park in Ferntree Gully, a joint initiative between Knox City Council and the Victorian state government.

Officially opened by Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino on Monday 13 February, the four synthetic cricket training wickets with retractable nets will be used by more than 180 members at Ferntree Gully Cricket Club.

Ms De Martino said the aging cricket nets at Dobson Park were in desperate need of an upgrade.

“The new cricket nets will go a long way to inspiring even more locals to join in local sport, with local sport now having the facilities they need to welcome more women and girls, train longer, and compete,” she said.

“Better facilities make it easier for Victorians to get back into local sport and recreation and live active and healthy lifestyles.”

The nets were funded through a $90,000 contribution by the state government’s Community Cricket Program and $153,000 from Knox City Council.

Bayswater MP Jackson Taylor said he was stoked to have backed the Ferntree Gully Cricket Club with the funding and he is proud to see the project through.

“The new nets have come up a treat, and I don’t doubt they’ll get good use now and for years to come,” he said.

“Dare I say it, we’ve really hit this one for six.”

Dobson Park, located on Dorset Road, falls directly on the border of Ms De Martino and Mr Taylor’s electorate after redistricting ahead of last year’s state election.