FEDERAL Member for McEwen, Rob Mitchell joined representatives from the City of Whittlesea to turn the sod on the Mernda Regional Sports Precinct indoor stadium project last Friday in Mernda.
Whittlesea local and rising Melbourne Vixens star Tara Watson, junior netballers from the Northern Pride Netball Association and netball and basketball administration staff were among the many in attendance.
Mr Mitchell described the official event as more than just the beginning of a long-awaited construction project.
“This is the start of a new chapter for Mernda and the surrounding communities—one that brings sport, opportunity and community together under one roof,” he said.
“Once this state-of-the-art stadium is complete, it will offer so much more than just courts and changerooms. It will host netball and basketball games, fitness events and community programs for everyone.
“It will also see Mernda grow as a regional destination for major sporting events. It will attract visitors, drive business to our local shops and cafes and promote our community.”
Funded with $10 million dollars from the Federal Government’s Thriving Suburbs Program which aims to assist local councils fund capital projects that enhance liveability, strengthen social cohesion and support local communities amenities.
The project will include a four-court stadium, seating, changerooms, all abilities toilets and a changing places facility. Another plus are a foyer and reception area, a kiosk, office space, community and multipurpose rooms, umpires lounge and storage areas.
“We are also building for the future, with partnerships in place that will open up education and career pathways in sports management, coaching and health sciences,” Mr Mitchell said.
“From the practical features to the vision behind it, this project reflects the very best of community led planning and government working together.
“Credit to the City of Whittlesea for the work that went into the grant application for this project and the vision they have applied for sport in our community.
“We are also looking forward to the construction of the eight outdoor netball courts, funded with $1.5 million from the Office of Sport Play Our Way program to compliment the indoor facilities.”
The project, which began in March 2025 with site preparation is scheduled for completion in December 2026 and will see 82 direct and 120 indirect jobs created over the two years.
