The Allan Labor Government is backing the next generation of rugby league stars in Victoria, with the completion of the new State Rugby League and Community Centre helping more players have their shot at sporting stardom.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos today opened the new world-class venue at Seabrook Reserve in Broadmeadows alongside members of the Melbourne Storm, thanks to the Labor Government's $14.3 million investment.
This blockbuster centre will be the new home for Melbourne Storm's elite female development pathways, NRL Victoria and its youth development squads, and Touch Victoria - backing players and teams from grassroots to elite levels.
The centre also features three new turf pitches, a pavilion with female friendly change rooms, a half pitch for touch rugby, high performance training facilities, medical facilities, match day amenities, a kitchen, and meeting and administration rooms, including space for community groups to meet.
These facilities will also be used by local sports organisations and clubs including the Northern Thunder to ensure more grassroots clubs have the best facilities and infrastructure to support rugby league's growth in Victoria.
The Labor Government has also invested more than $1 million in the wider Seabrook Reserve precinct for the whole community to enjoy.
The project was supported by Hume City Council, NRL and the Melbourne Storm.
As stated by Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos
"Victoria is the sporting capital of Australia and this new home for rugby league will help foster the next generation of sporting superstars, while growing the game for the entire community."
As stated by Member for Broadmeadows Kathleen Matthews-Ward
"We're proud to create a vibrant rugby league hub in the heart of Broadmeadows, providing a boost for Melbourne Storm's women's program, local and community rugby."
As stated by Hume City Council Mayor Naim Kurt
"Alongside elite football, cricket, AFL and tennis facilities under construction, this development will set a new standard for women's sport and Rugby League development in Hume, while also being a win for the community."
As stated by Melbourne Storm CEO Justin Rodski
"The continued growth of rugby league locally and introduction of new Melbourne Storm pathways programs for female and male players is exciting for the game in Victoria. With the support of the Victorian Government and Hume City Council, we hope to see more local players wearing the Storm jersey in years to come."
As stated by NRL CEO Andrew Abdo
"Thanks to the support of the Victorian Government, Hume City Council and Melbourne Storm, not only will this facility turbo charge the development of young Victorians dreaming of wearing an NRL or NRLW jersey, it will also establish a state-of-the-art facility for the local community."
