The new Sweeney Reserve Softball Pavilion in Berwick has been officially re-opened meeting the community’s growing demand for modern, accessible and unisex facilities.
Council’s CEO Glenn Patterson was joined by members of the Casey Softball Association, as well as Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas on Saturday 14 March to unveil the new pavillion, following the demolition of the old venue in 2018 to make way for new and improved facilities.
The $2.59 million pavilion is the sole softball venue in Casey and is the headquarters of the Casey Softball Association which has 37 teams across nine clubs, with 390 participants.
Mr Patterson welcomed the modern facilities, which replaced the outdated and male-only friendly infrastructure.
“The construction of the new pavilion will increase participation and allow maximum use of this reserve,” he said.
“It will also increase accessibility and safety for our users, and will allow multi-sport use, regional and representative competitions and training opportunities.”
The new pavilion now has four unisex change rooms; two unisex referee rooms with partitions; a multi-purpose community room; public toilets with an accessible toilet and shower; a kitchen; storeroom; undercover spectator area and car parking.
Mr Patterson also added what a difference the above additions will make to Casey’s growing community and sporting groups.
This project was jointly funded by Council and the Victorian Government, with $1.73 million invested through the Growing Suburbs Fund.
“We welcome the Victorian Government’s funding towards this project and thank them for their investment in the region, which is one of the fastest growing in Victoria,” Mr Patterson said.
“We look forward to continuing to grow our partnership with the Victorian Government to build sport and recreational facilities as well as other critical infrastructure.
“We are committed to reducing the gap in infrastructure for emerging popular sports, which includes softball and baseball, so our community can be active, healthy and connected, particularly for residents in our growth areas.”
