- Published:
- Tuesday 23 December 2014
The Andrews Labor Government will make St Kilda’s iconic Junction Oval the new home of Victorian Cricket with a $25 million contribution.
Premier Daniel Andrews met with Cricket Victoria’s Chairman, Geoff Tamblyn, and CEO, Tony Dodemaide, to discuss the Government’s plans to transform the Oval. Minister for Sport, John Eren, and Member for Albert Park, Martin Foley, were also present.
With the Government’s investment, Junction Oval will stand side-by-side with the Melbourne Cricket Ground as a first class cricket facility, capable of hosting Sheffield Shield matches and international events.
Under Labor’s plan, Cricket Victoria’s administrative, development and training functions will be consolidated in the one space – the Victorian Cricket and Community Centre. It will also house the National Centre for Diversity through Cricket, to promote social inclusion.
An additional first class venue in Victoria will enhance the state’s ability to attract and bid for major events, such as extra matches during an ICC World Twenty20 held in Australia.
The redevelopment will also feature women’s facilities, a high performance training centre and medical and rehabilitation facilities. The new venue will have a capacity of up to 7,000.
Cricket participation in Victoria has grown 56 per cent since 2006, and entry-level participation has quadrupled. 51,000 girls and women now play the sport. International cricket contributes $70 million to Victoria’s economy.
Quotes Attributable to Daniel Andrews, Premier of Victoria
“The Labor Government will give Victorian cricket the permanent home it deserves, with state-of-the-art facilities to find, house and train the next Australian legend – man or woman.”
“We’ll always have the MCG, but a new Junction Oval will fill a void and help bring more major events to our state.”
Quotes Attributable to John Eren, Minister for Sport
“The construction phase alone will create many jobs and, once in operation, the Victorian Cricket and Community Centre will continue to provide important economic benefit to the state.”
“Victoria enjoys the highest level of participation in Australia’s favourite sport and this long awaited and greatly needed boost to Victorian cricket will enable it to grow and flourish for generations to come.”