The Omeo community celebrated the launch of the alpine town's newly upgraded netball and tennis courts on Saturday 13 July, with players, officials, volunteers, Councillors and representatives from federal and local government on hand for the official opening.
Councillors Arthur Allen and Sonia Buckley from East Gippsland Shire Council officiated at the ceremony, which coincided with an Omeo Benambra Football Netball Club home netball game, providing a sporting backdrop to showcase the upgraded facilities.
"The new courts are more than just a place to play netball and tennis," Cr Allen said. "With organised sports being the primary recreational activities for women and girls in this town, the new courts play a crucial role in fostering community connection."
The upgrade was identified by the Omeo community as a high priority, and in 2021 Council was successful in applying for $586,528 funding through the Federal Government's Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Program and contributed $44,487 toward the project which ensures the future of competition netball in Omeo.
"We're so pleased with our new courts. It's brought the district together and helped us play great netball. We really appreciate it," Omeo Benambra Football Netball Club secretary Sarah Lord said.
In addition to resurfaced courts, the upgraded facilities include new perimeter fencing, lighting that meets Netball Australia training standards, player and scorer shelters, secure storage, new pedestrian access, spectator facilities, and an upgraded access road and parking area.
"We're really grateful to have such a beautiful facility in our area," said Amanda Pendergast, A Grade netball coach.
"These facilities encourage people to get outside, engage and interact. They provide a space for mentoring, leadership, improved mental health and new friendships," Cr Allen said.
Various community organisations in Omeo provided letters of support for the project, underscoring its importance to the region, and the Omeo community has expressed its pride in the finished project where people of all ages can connect.
