Sport for all seasons

CASEY’s sporting groups will soon be able to enjoy their sport of choice – rain, hail or shine.
Last week the State Government announced $650,000 in funding to boost the Casey council’s development of a new sporting facility at Carlisle Park in Cranbourne.
The $3.7 million project includes the construction of an all-weather synthetic football and cricket oval – the first of its kind in Casey and the second in Victoria.
The development will also include two netball courts, cricket practice nets, a pavilion and car parking.
Carlisle Park will be home to the Lyndhurst Cricket Club, Youth Girls football, South East Juniors umpires and representative team squads and Carlisle Park Primary School will also make use of the facility.
City of Casey Mayor Amanda Stapledon was joined by the Minister for Sport and Recreation Hugh Delahunty and Mordialloc MP Lorraine Wreford at Carlisle Park on Thursday 14 March for the funding announcement.
“This significant contribution will go towards the first-ever synthetic playing surface for AFL and cricket in the Casey and the second in Victoria,” Cr Stapledon said.
“Until now synthetic playing surfaces were only used for bowls, hockey, tennis and athletics in Casey.
“Introducing a synthetic surface for AFL will provide many benefits to our local teams and players including improved safety, more playing time before maintenance is required and a beautiful green surface all year round.”
The State Government’s announcement was accompanied by a $100,000 commitment in principle from AFL Victoria, adding to the council’s $3.22 million investment in the project.
Mr Delahunty said the new synthetic sports oval would be built to handle the toughest conditions, including extreme weather and more players.
“It’s also designed for maximum safety and comfort, helping to further minimise potential impact injuries,” he said.
“That’s great news for local clubs such as the Lyndhurst Vikings Cricket Club and South East Juniors keen to find alternative or permanent venues to train and play longer, and attract even more players.
“Our investment in this project is part of our plan to build more sustainable sports venues that make a real difference to local people.
“As well as the health benefits, we are also helping to stimulate the local economy and create jobs throughout the construction phase.”