The new hockey facilities at Corio's Stead Park - backed by the Allan Labor Government - are one step closer to becoming a reality with the search now on for the right builder to deliver the brand-new facilities.
Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence and Member for Lara Ella George today announced the opening of the Expression of Interest (EOI) process for the head contractor to lead the redevelopment, which will include a new pavilion and upgraded pitch - boosting Stead Park's reputation as one of the state's best hockey venues.
All interested applicants must outline their plans for engaging with local businesses, suppliers and workers, to create local jobs and strengthen the local economy.
The new pavilion will be located between the venue's two hockey pitches and will include four change rooms, change rooms for match officials, a canteen, equipment and team storage, and a first aid center. The second level will feature a social space, a meeting room and kitchen, as well as terrace seating overlooking both pitches.
The location of the new pavilion will give players on both pitches equal access to change rooms and facilities, while improving viewing for spectators.
The redevelopment will also see upgrades to the western pitch including new fencing, drainage, an electronic scoreboard and sports lighting - ensuring the venue can host national-level hockey competitions.
The Stead Park redevelopment is complemented by a new hockey pitch that will be delivered at Banyul-Warri Fields in Torquay, which is also funded through the Regional Sports Infrastructure Program.
Stead Park is one of five projects across the Geelong and Surf Coast region being delivered through the Labor Government's Regional Sports Infrastructure Program - with 16 projects in total across the state.
The Regional Sports Infrastructure Program is part of the Labor Government's record $45 billion investment since 2014 in projects and programs that matter to regional communities, including more than $2.3 billion for community sport infrastructure across Victoria.
Programs like the Regional Sports Infrastructure Program are supporting rural and regional Victoria to be even better place to live, work and visit. The record investment is delivering what locals want and need, close to home, to attract more visitors and help local businesses grow.
For more information about the tender process and requirements, visit tenders.vic.gov.au.
As stated by Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence
"This is a project that matters to the local community - it's a venue that will bring the community together, strengthen Stead Park's reputation as a premier hockey venue, all while backing local jobs and businesses."
As stated by Member for Lara Ella George
"Corio's Stead Park is the proud home of hockey in Geelong - and the State Government's redevelopment gives players, fans and families the world class facilities they deserve."
