Upgrades to the Ballarat Sports and Events Centre (Selkirk Stadium) have taken a step forward with the awarding of a Principal Design Consultant.
The project will see court upgrades, broadcast and lighting updates, roof works and improved accessibility.
Victorian-based company City Collective have been announced as the project's Principal Design Consultant and will utilise local jobs and see collaboration with Aboriginal-owned businesses and suppliers.
The project is a partnership between the Victorian Government and City of Ballarat.
Minister for Community Sport, Ros Spence said the upgrades will be a gamechanger for everyone who uses the Ballarat Sports and Events Centre.
"These upgrades will enhance the experience for players and spectators - creating lasting benefits for the community and encouraging greater participation in local sports and events," Minister Spence said.
"By improving this local sports infrastructure we are backing local businesses, strengthening the community and attracting more people to the region."
Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison is also looking forward to the upgrades.
"Further upgrades to the Ballarat Sports Event Centre are great news for our community and the region - with great benefits for our youngest players all the way to our elite athletes, as well as supporting local jobs and collaboration with Aboriginal-owned businesses," she said.
The Ballarat Sports Events Centre is one of 16 projects across regional Victoria being delivered through the State Government's Regional Sports Infrastructure Program, with three in the Ballarat region.
City of Ballarat Director Community Wellbeing Matthew Wilson said Selkirk Stadium is a much-loved facility used by thousands of people each year and these upgrades will ensure continued participation and access to healthy recreational options across Ballarat.
"We know that sport and recreation play a key role in supporting all aspects of health and wellbeing - from physical and mental health to the promotion of social connection," he said.
"Selkirk Stadium is a really important venue for the City of Ballarat, from supporting grassroot competitions through to hosting elite-level events that boost our economy. These upgrades are critical to ensuring the venue meets and can expand those demands into the future."
A delivery program for the works will be developed in the coming months.
