THE Frankston Regional Basketball Centre expansion and redevelopment project will receive $4.95 million from the Australian Government’s National Stronger Regions Fund, boosting local jobs, community infrastructure and support programs, Dunkley MP Bruce Billson has announced.
“Our energetic basketball fraternity and 7,000 members of the Frankston and District Basketball Association know that the growing popularity of the sport has seen the current facilities bursting at the seams,” said Mr Billson.
The $12.5 million construction can now procced with the Frankston Stadium expanding to a 10 court facility including a show-court with spectator seating capable of hosting major events; multi-sport line marking; updated kiosk, reception and administration facilities; improved change rooms and toilet facilities; car parking and landscaping.
As well as adding a further 4 indoor courts, the expanded and modernised complex will provide a purpose-built venue for district, State and national league and wheelchair basketball competition as well as transform the facility into a ‘community hub’ and a focus for youth services.
Beyond the job creation and economic boost of the construction phase, the completed facility will provide additional operational employment opportunities, support local education, training, health and research programs and function as a disaster event/emergency service response and care centre when required.
“This hard-won grant we have worked long and hard to secure adds to the $2.5 million grant from the previous State Liberal Government and the Frankston City and FDBA contributions will finally ensure that Victoria’s 5th largest basketball association has the facilities it needs to grow, prosper and strengthen our community into the future.”