The battleground for the seat of Nicholls has heated up with the federal election just two weeks away, with sporting facilities looming as a key local matter for voters.
Broadford’s Harley Hammond Reserve and Kilmore’s JJ Clancy Reserve are the subject of upgrades but are dependent upon which party wins the election.
On Wednesday, Labor Senator Jana Stewart joined candidate for Nicholls Kim Travers to announce a re-elected Albanese Government would add $580,000 worth of funding for female-friendly facilities at Harley Hammond Reserve.
Ms Stewart says it was important to bring the facilities at Harley Hammond in line with the remainder of the ground, which had already been subject to $900,000 of funding under the Albanese Government.
“This project is about more than bricks and mortar—it’s about fairness, opportunity and supporting the next generation of female athletes,” she said.
“When we invest in local sport, we’re backing equity, community pride and a stronger future for regional towns like Broadford.
“Having grown up in regional Victoria, I know how important local sport is for communities. I am proud to be part of a government committed to building facilities that welcome everyone.”
“These upgrades aren’t just about sport—they’re about safety, inclusion and making sure Broadford has facilities the whole community can rely on.”
Mitchell Shire Council (MSC) Mayor Councillor John Dougall also expressed his support for the upgrade.
“We are very grateful to see Labor backing this crucial project. The upgrades will ensure that Broadford’s sporting facilities meet modern standards and continue to serve the community, providing a safe, inclusive space for all,” he said.
“Harley Hammond Reserve has long been an essential space for our community. These upgrades will enhance its versatility, making sure it continues to serve both recreational and safety needs, particularly in times of crisis.”
With Kilmore joining the Nicholls electorate, member for Nicholls Sam Birrell travelled to Kilmore on Thursday and committed $700,000 to JJ Clancy Reserve if a Dutton-Littleproud Government is elected.
The announcement was split into two pieces of funding, with $600,000 committed to the reserve to improve safety and accessibility, while $100,000 will be committed to construct a permanent BMX and mountain bike jumps track.
The safety and accessibility project will prioritise fixing the access point from Kelly’s Road, while the new jumps track would be built on vacant Council land, while also preserving the integrity of Monument Hill.
$520,000 of the safety and accessibility project will be provided, while MSC will also contribute an additional $80,000 for the project.
Mr Birrell says both projects will be key for the Kilmore area.
“JJ Clancy Reserve is a wonderful facility, with a modern community hub and quality playing fields and courts, but more work needs to be done,” he said.
When speaking of the bike jumps track, Mr Birrell said it was key that a solution could be found.
“The lack of a permanent facility has led to unauthorised bush tracks being built on Monument Hill, an area with high conservation and cultural heritage values,” he said.
“The 76-hectare Monument Hill Reserve is a place for passive recreation and while bike riding is allowed on formal trails, the ‘off track’ trails are unmanaged and impact the environment. The best solution for everyone is to provide a permanent jumps track.
Cr Dougall said the ongoing preservation of Monument Hill was an ongoing priority.
“The upgrade to JJ Clancy Reserve will make a huge difference to safety and accessibility for all users, whether they are participants or spectators,” he said.
“The BMX and mountain bike jumps track will provide our youth with a much-needed permanent facility to pursue their passion in a safe environment.
