By XAVIER SMERDON
WYNDHAM’S newest sporting precinct will be officially opened to the public this week.
Saltwater Reserve has been three years in the making, is a size equivalent to 11 MCGs and has been largely funded by Wyndham ratepayers at a cost of $26.3 million, with external funding secured for the synthetic pitch.
The synthetic pitch attracted funding from AFL and Cricket Australia combined of $340,000, from Cricket Victoria a further $20,000 and Sport and Recreation Victoria provided $300,000 from the Synthetic Surfaces Program.
Councillor Peter Maynard said a day of fun would be held to mark the opening of the reserve.
“There is something for everyone on the official launch ’family day’ making good use of the multiple sporting fields, tennis and basketball courts, neighbourhood park, playground and dog park, which covers 22 hectares,” Cr Maynard said.
“This is the opportunity for Wyndham residents to celebrate a major sporting facility being provided for their community,” he said.
“We have a crazy Frisbee competition, face-painting, jumping castle, giant slide and playground for kids to run amok. Join our competition where every kid will receive a prize when they complete a challenge.”
The now completed reserve features three AFL and cricket ovals, including the first full size synthetic AFL turf in Australia, eight tennis courts and three soccer fields.
The family fun day will be held this Sunday from 11am.
For more information visit www.experiencewyndham.vic.gov.au or call 9742 0777.
