Diggers Rest game changer

Diggers Rest Recreation Reserve opening (Supplied)

The $16.63 million redevelopment of Diggers Rest Recreation Reserve’s Sport and Community Pavilion was officially opened on April 13, to provide crucial community infrastructure.

Melton council and the state government jointly funded the project, which features more than 550 square metres of community meeting spaces, including a social room, community kitchen and canteen.

The state government said the project has delivered a modern, purpose-built space for the community and local sporting clubs that includes gender-equitable amenities and female friendly facilities to encourage greater female participation.

Other important improvements included a redeveloped oval, new cricket nets, electronic

scoreboards, public toilets, more car parking and a new access road.

Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said these upgrades have transformed the Diggers Rest Recreation Reserve into a major sporting hub for a rapidly growing community.”

“The new pavilion is more than just a place to celebrate local sport, it’s a hub for the wider community with a dedicated space to host a wide range of events,” she said.

“Council will be hosting a community open day to showcase facilities soon, so keep an eye out for details of that event.”

Sunbury MP Josh Bull said it is essential to give local clubs and community groups the facilities they deserve, while catering for the immense demand in community sport.

Suburbs minister Sonya Kilkenny said the Growing Suburbs Fund, which provided the funding, supports local community connections and services.

“[It helps] residents thrive and adapt to change through adopting healthy lifestyles,” she said.