2020 Recreation Strategy 2020 ISSUES PAPER

About this document This document is the Issues Paper for the Mildura Recreation Strategy, 2019-2029. It was revised June 2020.

One other document prepared for this Recreation Strategy was Volume 1: Demand and Consultation Findings.

An inventory of facilities including parks has also been prepared and is attached to this document. Please note: The views expressed in the consultation cited in this document are those provided by the Mildura Rural City Council. They do not necessarily reflect the views held by @leisure or Council. Acknowledgements @leisure would like to acknowledge the support and assistance provided by:

• Scott Umback, for his contribution, vision and passion for Sport and Recreation during his time with the Mildura Rural City Council. His contribution and influence will always be remembered. • Thomas Stevenson, Recreation Development Coordinator, Mildura Rural City Council. • Sue O’Brien, Recreation Officer, Mildura Rural City Council. • All other staff, along with residents, community groups and sporting associations who competed a survey, were interviewed or contributed information to the process.

The Mildura Recreation Strategy 2020-2030 was supported by the Victorian Government.

Mildura Recreation Strategy - Issues 1 CONTENTS Glossary of terms...... 4 The Project: What was done...... 5 Alignment with key plans...... 6 Demographic influences...... 7 Context ...... 7 Nature of settlements ...... 7 Demographic influences on sport and recreation ...... 7 Potential demand for recreation facilities...... 10 Demand for recreation - What we heard...... 12 Most popular activities ...... 12 Activities liked but not undertaken ...... 12 The top ten recreation facilities used ...... 12 The overarching issues ...... 12 What we have (Facilities) - Rural townships...... 13 What we have (Facilities) - Mildura and satellite towns...... 14 Trends...... 15 Key issues and preliminary directions...... 16 1. Council’s role in recreation ...... 16 2. Equity in sport and recreation ...... 18

Mildura Recreation Strategy - Issues 2 3. Encouraging participation through a diversity of recreation opportunities ...... 19 4. Support of clubs and community organisations ...... 21 5. Contributions by clubs to the development of recreation facilities ...... 22 6. Fees and charges ...... 23 7. Recreation facility investment priorities ...... 24 8. Strategy review and development ...... 27 Attachments...... 28 1. Proposed hierarchy of facilities ...... 29 2. Mildura peak body and club membership data ...... 35 3. Mildura Rural City facility inventory and actions from previous plans and consultation ...... 37 4. Review of peak sporting bodies plans ...... 53 5. National and State Plans-key points ...... 56 6. Trail related actions recommended by the Community ...... 59 7. Potential participation for 2026 and 2036 projected from state average participation rates and existing memberships ....62 8. Benchmarking ...... 65 9. Fees and Charges; Principles ...... 72

Mildura Recreation Strategy - Issues 3 Glossary of terms

Accessibility Organised and non-organised activities “Accessibility” in this document means physical accessibility for people with a disability. This is in addition to inclusivity; accommodating people of all ages, AusPlay defines an organised activity as one conducted by an organisation or cultures and abilities in a sensitive and welcoming way. venue (outside school). Non-organised activities are not conducted by an organisation, venue or school. They may be individual or “informal”. Recreation opportunities “Recreation opportunities” describes the services, facilities and experiences that Target groups influence recreation. This term is used to emphasise the focus not just on facilities, but on the activities that occur as a result of organisations, programs, Target groups are those population groups who are less likely to participate in and the qualities of places and spaces. sport, physical activity or recreation without interventions. Target groups include: older adults, people with a disability, disengaged young people, indigenous people, people on low incomes, and people born in non-English speaking Equity countries, or who live remotely. Equity means the distribution of opportunities according to need, to create fairness. This is in addition to servicing the needs of people of all ages, abilities, cultural backgrounds and settlement types.

Passive and active

These terms (“passive and active”) are not preferred as their meanings are not clear. Typically these terms are used to distinguish organised sport from everything else - but passive is not a good description of non-organised activities such as walking and cycling that are inherently active. Organised and non-organised activities are the preferred terms.

Mildura Recreation Strategy - Issues 4

The Project: What was done

This Recreation Strategy aims to establish the strategic direction for recreation provision for the next ten years and address relevant actions not yet completed in the last plan. Key tasks undertaken included: • A review of the previous Recreation Strategy and identification of issues that need to be addressed in the new strategy • An inspection of existing facilities and the preparation of an inventory of facilities (See Attachment 3) • Engagement with local communities, sporting clubs, sports associations and peak bodies to identify issues, trends and demand • Collecting club and peak membership data and compared this with state participation rates (See Attachment 2) • Benchmarking with comparable Councils (See Attachment 8) • Identifying local, state and national sport and recreation industry trends • Reviewing Council’s policies, community plans, master plans and other strategic plans. Actions are included by site (See Attachment 3) • Developed this issues paper with issues to be considered in the development of the new strategy, the principles to be adopted, as well as directions with respect to capital works Community and stakeholder engagement methods included: • Telephone interviews of clubs, sports associations, schools, peak bodies and providers, • Promotion of the survey by Council staff at a local farmers market, • Council’s Have Your Say (HYS) page and a communications strategy to promote visitation to the HYS page and survey link, • Councillor and Internal stakeholders workshop • Community meeting held in , and • An online community survey

See separate volume; Demand and Consultation Findings.

Mildura Recreation Strategy - Issues 5 Alignment with key plans

National and State Plans Council Plans Local plans of significance that align with this plan, and which this plan has This project aligns with the aims of a number of national and state plans: taken principles from, are : • The Australian Government’s National Sport Plan: Sport 2030 • Community and Council Plan 2017-2021 (2018 Update) • National Sport and Active Recreation Policy Framework 2011 • Community Health and Wellbeing Plan 2017-2021 • Smart Cities Plan 2016 • Community Access and Inclusion Plan 2014-2018 • Infrastructure , Infrastructure Plan for Victoria 2016 • Events Strategy 2025, and • Active Victoria Strategic Framework 2017 • The Tracks and Trails Plan 2012 • Victoria’s Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2019-23 Other documents, Community Plans (including The Mildura Local Indigenous • Safe and Strong - A Victorian Gender Equality Policy 2016 Network Yuranga Aboriginal Committee) and master plans for reserves were reviewed and actions are shown in the last column of the Facility Inventory In See Attachment 5 for a summary of key directions in each. Attachment 3.

Mildura Recreation Strategy - Issues 6 Demographic influences Context Demographic influences on sport and Mildura Rural City (MRCC) is the largest municipality in Victoria, covering an area recreation of 22,330 sq.km. Located in north-west Victoria, it shares borders with New South Wales and . Population size The population of the local government area is approximately 55,000, dispersed The resident population of the MRCC in 2018 was approximately 55,000. across isolated rural townships, horticulture dependent satellite towns and one Council expects the population to grow to 62,500 by 2036 (State of Mildura central regional city; Mildura. The township of Mildura is an important regional Report). hub, due to the distance from other regional cities, and proximity to The Mildura township has about 38,000 residents and has identified growth other states. areas to its south and east. Mildura South will have a new sporting precinct Mildura township is located on the Murray River near its junction with the including a major indoor six court stadium and other outdoor sports and Darling. recreation facilities. Mildura has a typical Mediterranean climate with dry summers and mild winters. The main urban area includes Irymple (5,300) and Nichols Point (1,551), both are This climate and location make it an ideal place for sport and regional sporting experiencing residential growth and express a high demand for additional or tournaments and events. better quality facilities. The significant size of the river and its corridor is a competitive strength for Based on the ABS quick stats for 2016, there were three other localities with a Mildura and provides a focus for recreation and water sports. population of over 1,000 people; Red Cliffs (2,900) (2,700), and Ouyen (1,200). Twelve other localities had a population of approximately one hundred or Nature of settlements more. The majority of these small localities (except for and Werrimul) Mildura is a regional hub surrounded by the satellite suburbs of Irymple, Red have some form of sporting or recreation facility. Cliffs and Merbein. Ouyen is the principal rural township in the south of the municipality, and there Anecdotally the demographics of small areas are changing, to include fewer are many other smaller settlements throughout the rural areas including people with professional training that are willing and able to volunteer or manage Meringur, Werrimul, , Koorlong, Cardross, Nangiloc, Colignan, sports clubs. However, these clubs are more important than ever in providing , Underbool and Murrayville. social connections and physical activities for these smaller communities. Many of the small rural settlements are relatively remote, with limited services. As Remoteness and state borders also offer challenges in running sports farms have become larger and are now being managed off-site, the local competitions and seeking support and funding. population has become older and fewer.

Mildura Recreation Strategy - Issues 7 Age, gender, ethnicity and social disadvantage of joining sporting activities and Develop partnerships with existing Sporting agencies and schools. The main demographic influences affecting recreation and sporting participation The strength in sports such as motor sports, soccer-football and rugby is likely are age, gender, income ethnicity and education. to be influenced by cultural background. The median age of people in MRCC is 40 years. Children aged 0-14 years made up 19.0% of the population, while people aged 65 years and over made up Social disadvantage and remoteness affect access to recreation opportunities. 18.7% of the community. The population shows a higher proportion of school- The SEIFA Index (which provides an index of social disadvantage, with larger aged people than for Victoria, but a lower percentage of young adults than numbers representing a relative lack of social disadvantage) is 921 for the Victoria. MRCC and 913 for the Mildura township. The SEIFA Index for Victoria is 1010 The age profile suggests that participation in team sports should be strong in and Australia 1002. The State of Mildura Report (Local Logic Place 2016) juniors. Still, senior teams may find it challenging to maintain participation, even identifies Mildura as ranked the fifth most disadvantaged out of 79 Victorian though the overall population is increasing. As the proportion of older people Councils. increases, more older people will need to be encouraged to be active. See the SEIFA score for the main localities in MRCC in the following table. Promotion of gentle exercise through group exercise classes, swimming, walking and cycling, and supporting sports that typically attract older adults such as tennis, bowls and golf will be essential. Affordable community gyms will assist older adults with supervised rehabilitation.

In MRCC, 79.3% of people were born in Australia. This proportion is high compared to the Victorian average, but not for regional Victoria. The most common non-English speaking countries of birth were Italy, India and Turkey. There is a range of other cultures now emerging in Mildura, including Egyptians. The diversity in cultural background is likely to be reflected in a diversity of sport and recreation activities. People born overseas in non-English speaking cultures typically have lower physical activity rates but also bring specific cultural preferences for activities. MRCC has a high proportion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples (3.8% compared to 0.8% for Victoria). The Mildura Local Indigenous Network Yuranga Aboriginal Committee Community Plan identifies sport as very important for Aboriginal people.

Priorities in the plan include Accessible Koori Sporting Facilities to ensure our people are active; Establish a Koori Dance group; Source funding to cover costs

Mildura Recreation Strategy - Issues 8 Locality SEIFA Index Locality SEIFA Index The community engagement process highlighted that many residents score 2016 score 2016 experience some form of social disadvantage, and this will affect access to (disadvantage) (disadvantage) recreation and sporting opportunities. The community survey in particular Boinka 1065 Cardross 993 suggested that many sports opportunities are not affordable.

Carina 1065 Murrayville 990 Some further consideration of opportunities to target people from diverse 1065 989 cultural groups and those with low discretionary incomes will be important in programming and facility provision. Panitya 1065 Tempy 985

Torrita 1065 Ouyen 952

Tutye 1065 Cullulleraine 940

Nichols Point 1051 940

Lindsay Point 1040 Merrinee 940

Meringur 1040 Wargan 940

Koorlong 1028 Carwarp 939

Kulwin 1025 Hattah 939

Mittyack 1025 Iraak 939

Walpeup 1025 Nangiloc 939

Birdwoodton 1024 Red Cliffs 918

Underbool 1021 Mildura 913

Irymple 1009 Merbein 913

Yelta 1005 Colignan 874

Australian Bureau of Statistics. Socio-Economic Indexes for Australia (SEIFA) , 2016. Released March 2018.

Mildura Recreation Strategy - Issues 9 Potential demand for recreation facilities Potential participation and use by facility types Based on the projected population, and assuming that participation rates will at The assessment of membership numbers and the community survey findings least stay the same, an increase in the number of participants should be showed very strong demand for a wide range of organised sports, an increasing possible – if facilities are conveniently located, accessible, affordable and well demand for non-organised activities such as walking and cycling, in addition to promoted. gym and fitness facilities. Increasing demand was also observed in those activities which reflect Mildura’s competitive strengths; water-based recreation and sports and motor sports. Sport and Recreation Facility Type Projected potential number of users based on State Av. participation rates

Currently there is a strong focus on providing for the traditional sports. However, Total 2019 Total 2026 Total 2036 trends (see separate chapter on trends) suggest that non-organised, as well as 28,270 30,831 35,965 social and virtual forms of physical activity will be in demand (such as group Off-road trail exercise). These activities need to be suitable for multiple age groups and Indoor gym, fitness centre 16,893 18,427 20,032 abilities, and in a wider range of locations. Existing community infrastructure and Outdoor playing field 10,891 10,962 11,028 sporting precincts could accomodate gym and fitness facilities, while additional tracks and trails and more sharing of sports and school based infrastructure is • Outdoor playing field (Oval sports) 5,820 5,859 5,893 needed. Continued promotion and encouragement of activities in river corridors • Outdoor playing field (rectangular sports) 5,071 5,103 5,135 is desirable. • Outdoor playing field (athletics centre) 680 701 718

The following table illustrates the potential numbers of users for different types of • Outdoor playing field (hockey/lacrosse) 542 574 606 infrastructure. The results support the perceived need for more focus on trails • Outdoor playing field (diamond sports) 417 435 452 and fitness facilities, and identifies the likely diverse nature of facilities that need to be planned, developed and promoted. Swimming pool/ aquatic leisure centre 10,455 10,987 13,691 The following figures are based only on state average participation rates for Outdoor skate, roller sport facility 5,790 5,754 5,935 Victoria (AusPlay) 2019 applied to the population of MRCC and future Multiple sports indoor courts centre- (team sports) 5,143 5,195 5,246 projections for 2026 and 2036. These figures won’t reflect the additional demand for river related activities and motor sports for example. • Squash/racquetball court 332 359 387

• Indoor centre, other minor sports, martial arts 1,625 1,704 1,779

• Indoor sports court (dedicated table tennis centre) 292 319 346

Mildura Recreation Strategy - Issues 10 Sport and Recreation Facility Type Projected potential number of users based on State Av. participation rates

Total 2019 Total 2026 Total 2036

• Indoor cricket/futsal centre 203 201 197

Outdoor sports court (tennis /netball) 3,804 3,339 5,521

Outdoor water-based sports facility 2,835 3,074 3,322

Golf course/driving range 2,511 2,290 2,480

Indoor centre, other minor sports, dance/ calisthenics 2,233 2,324 2,405

Lawn bowls green 660 720 783

Cycle sports (competition) facility 512 545 600

Equestrian facility 294 309 324

Air sports facility 214 215 213

Shooting range/facility 102 106 110

Motor sports facilities 93 98 103

Croquet green 48 53 57

Local and peak body membership numbers for MRCC were collected. These are provided in Attachment 2. These are not comparable as Mildura data is included in peak body figures that extend over the border in some instances. Not all clubs and peak bodies supplied their data.

Mildura Recreation Strategy - Issues 11 Demand for recreation - What we heard Most popular activities The top ten recreation facilities used Sporting and recreation is very popular within the MRCC. Following community The top ten types of recreation facilities used by respondents are: consultation, the 10 most popular sporting activities amongst those surveyed are listed below. • Outdoor grass sports • National/nature park/ playing field conservation area • Hockey • Exercising the dog • Social/family recreation park • Splash park • Off-road cycling (MTB) • Netball (outdoor) including large play space • Mountain bike trails • Walking • Swimming • Off-road shared trail for • Hockey pitch • Football (Australian rules) • Basketball walking, cycling, skating, etc • Boating/fishing facility • Cricket (outdoor) • Cycling (road/track) • Outdoor swimming pool • Dog exercise space The sports participated in most by males within the survey sample were cycling (off road), cricket (outdoor) and football (Australian rules), while the most popular The overarching issues activities among women were hockey, walking, and netball (outdoor). The overarching issues raised were about improvements to recreation facilities in MRCC. Issues related to: Activities liked but not undertaken • The poor playing surfaces (throughout all sporting codes) • The lack of sports lighting Over 30% of those surveyed would like to participate in activities within MRCC • Need for maintenance that they don’t currently participate in. Of these, the top sport and recreation • Poor change rooms or supporting amenities (eg. pavilions, grandstands) activities residents would like to do but don’t currently are listed below. • A lack of proper signage • Off-road cycling • A lack of mountain biking/cycling/walking trails (or poor condition) • Climbing • A lack of adequate fencing, additional provision of public toilet facilities, Group exercise/fitness classes • shade/seating for spectators and at recreation parks, and • Archery • Free outdoor recreation (no basketball courts, outdoor gym equipment Yoga • etc). These sport and recreation activities were mostly not participated in due to • Many clubs are concerned about keeping sport affordable and seek distance of facilities from the participants homes, or poor quality of existing support to train officials and coaches, and apply for grants. facilities.

Mildura Recreation Strategy - Issues 12 What we have (Facilities) - Rural townships

Mildura has an extensive range of facilities for a wide range of sports and recreation activities. In addition to these, a good network of trails is • 14 outdoor tennis CULLULLERAINE Mildura and courts (lawn) satellite towns developing. • 2 playing fields for Australian rules on next page MRCC is punctuated by the Murray River and a football KOORLONG 1 rifle range number of lakes that provide an important • 1 netball court • (acrylic coated • 1 gliding field 1/8 mile drag strip setting for non organised recreation, as well as concrete) • 1 rifle range • 1 off road motor racing water sports. track • 1 grass playing field for Australian rules football NANGILOC • 1 grass bowling green and cricket 6 lawn tennis courts • • 1 cricket pitch (concrete) 1 Australian rules football COLIGNAN 1 public swimming pool and toddler • • 1 asphalt netball court playing field pool, with 1 open field • 1 grass bowling green A recreation inventory 1 cricket pitch (synthetic) • • 4 outdoor tennis courts 2 outdoor sports courts used • • 2 pitch cricket net facility for netball, basketball and for Mildura tennis (acrylic hard court) • 1 outdoor swimming pool, 1 toddlers swimming pool Council does not have a recreation inventory. • 1 nine hole golf course However an inventory is an important planning tool and should be used to promote available opportunities. MURRAYVILLE TORRITA OUYEN This project compiled an inventory of known UNDERBOOL WALPEUP • 3 Australian rules football playing facilities (provided in a seperate attachment to field (1 at P-12 College, 2 at Blackburn Park) this Issues Paper). • 2 synthetic cricket pitches (1 at P-12 College, 1 at Blackburn Park) 1 bowling green This inventory should be refined and built on. • • 1 grass Australian rules • 3 netball courts (1 at P-12 College, 1 nine hole golf course • football field • 1 eighteen hole public 2 at Blackburn Park (acrylic coated) The inventory contains suggestions for 1 playing field for Australian • • 1 cricket pitch (synthetic) golf course • 2 bowling greens rules football • 2 tennis courts (acrylic hard • 4 outdoor tennis courts • 1 indoor sports court for basketball improvements to reserves from the consultation 1 cricket pitch (synthetic) • court) • 1 Australian rules football and gymnastics (timber flooring) 2 netball courts (acrylic coated) for this plan and previous master plans. • playing field • 1 eighteen hole public golf course 6 outdoor tennis courts (acrylic • • 1 cricket pitch (synthetic) • 10 outdoor tennis courts (8 lawn — coated ) possibly closed, 2 synthetic) 1 outdoor swimming pool, • • 1 30 metre outdoor swimming pool 1 toddlers swimming pool • 1 toddlers swimming pool • 1 BMX/scooter/skateboarding facility • Private motorcycle track (off course)

Mildura Recreation Strategy - Issues 13 What we have (Facilities) - Mildura and satellite towns

• 1 school based indoor sport gymnasium MERBEIN • 1 playing field used for soccer, • 1 baseball diamond cricket and rugby league • 2 playing field for Australian rules football and • 1 fire track • 1 cricket pitch (turf) cricket • 3 cricket pitches (2 turf Chaffey and Kenny, 1 • 1 synthetic cricket pitch • 3 netball courts (2 acrylic coated), 1 asphalt) synthetic at Catholic school) • 4 cricket training nets • 2 cricket pitch (1 turf, 1 synthetic) • 3 cricket training nets • 1 racecourse • 4 cricket practice nets • 8 outdoor tennis courts (asphalt) • 1 eighteen hole golf course • 1 playing field for soccer - football • 2 playing fields for Australian rules football and • 2 basketball courts • 1 bocce rink cricket • 2 bowling greens (1 grass, 1 synthetic) • 1 playing field for Australian rules football and • 1 30 metre outdoor swimming pool, 1 toddlers NICHOLS POINT swimming pool cricket and soccer-football MILDURA • 2 netball courts (acrylic coated) • 1 indoor sports courts for basketball, • 2 croquet greens (grass) badminton and volleyball (timber flooring) • 3 bowls greens (2 grass, 1 synthetic) IRYMPLE • 2 squash/racquetball courts (timber flooring) • 1 eighteen hole golf course • 1 skate park • 1 outdoor 25 metre swimming pool, 2 toddlers • 2 netball courts (acrylic coated swimming pools CARDROSS concrete) • 1 rodeo facility • 1 playing field for Australian rules football and cricket 1 cricket pitch (turf) • 1 25 metre, 1 50 metre outdoor • 4 baseball diamonds • RED CLIFFS 3 cricket training nets swimming pool, 1 diving pool, 2 water • 3 softball diamonds • 1 shooting range play/splash parks, 1 spa/sauna, 1 • 5 soccer-football pitches • toddlers swimming pool • 1 roller derby facility • 1 beach volleyball sand arena • 1 rowing club • 3 indoor sports courts for indoor • 1 canoe club • 1 archery field soccer, cricket and netball (carpet • 1 dragon boat club • 2 playing fields for Australian rules football and surface) • 1 desert divers club cricket • 1 croquet court • 1 water ski club • 6 cricket pitches (4 turf and 2 synthetic) • 17 outdoor netball courts (asphalt/ • 1 lifesaving club • 2 netball courts (acrylic coated) acrylic coated ) • 1 harness racing track • 2 croquet courts • 4 indoor sport courts (timber flooring) • 1 showground • 15 outdoor tennis courts (lawn) • 4 bowls greens • 1 go kart track • 1 skate park • 1 eighteen hole golf course • 1 clay target club • 1 30 metre outdoor swimming pool, 1 toddlers • 2 horse riding/equestrian complexes • 1 radio control car track swimming pool • 1 motor raceway • 1 sailing club • 3 playing fields for cricket • 32 outdoor tennis courts (lawn) • 1 speedway • 4 outdoor tennis courts (synthetic) • 7 full playing fields for Australian rules • 1 golf driving range • 1 fire track football and cricket • 12 cricket practice nets • 2 bowls greens • 7 cricket pitches (7 turf, 2 synthetic) • 1 fire track • 1 eighteen hole golf course • 2 school sized Australian rules football • 1 ten pin bowling facility /cricket ovals • 4 outdoor tennis courts (synthetic) • 1 skate park • 4 outdoor tennis courts (rebound ace) • 1 dog park • 3 cricket fields including 10 cricket • 1 athletics track facility pitches (7 turf, 3 synthetic) • 1 BMX track • 1 artificial turf hockey pitch Mildura Recreation Strategy - Issues 14 LEISURE TRENDS relevant to Mildura ISSUES, that SHOULD Be CONSIDereD Leisure behaviour changes over time. Council needs to be able to respond to the likely issues that will arise, as well as changes in demand. The following trends respond to issues raised locally and that are likely to arise due to external influences and societal changes.

Trends Gender equity and identity in sport Shared use vs multi-purpose An increasing number of people with a diversity of gender identities Sharing of facilities is more important than ever, but there is want to play sport. There is also a growth in competition increasing pressure to be multipurpose at the expense of fit-for- opportunities for and participation by females in a sport requiring purpose. Many surfaces are specific to the nature of the sport, and infrastructure to be more female and family-friendly. a significant compromise in player safety and functionality occurs when seeking to make them “multi-purpose.” User expectations of facility quality and maintenance are increasing Climate change and sport More peak bodies have infrastructure standards seeking consistent Users seek more shelter, shade and lights at pools and sports safer facilities and sports turf technology improvements. facilities with increasing temperatures and storm intensity. The river Community expectations are increasing and out of step with funds is a more sought after destination, and sports clubs have to available for maintenance and facilities, along with the costs of these. manage the risks of heat and storms. Casualisation of sport Sport is challenging in schools There is an increasing demand for sports and organised recreation other Schools are finding it increasingly difficult and expensive to travel than in clubs' teams sports. Parkrun, "rock up" and "pay as you play" to sporting venues and provide sport in a crowded curriculum. sport and mixed-gender social sports are increasingly relevant. Schools are seeking more ready-made programs and facilities. Urban consolidation at the expense of Increasing value of pets farm-based rural populations More people want their "fur kids" to participate with them, and More workers live in towns, and rural communities find it difficult to expect pleasant places to socialise end exercise their pets close to sustain community infrastructure which they need more than ever home. Furthermore, there is an increased demand for dog parks for social connection. through residential areas. Sport and health benefits Growth in e-sports There is a greater legitimisation of sport and recreation based on The growth of e-sports allows a mass audience to connect, play health and wellbeing benefits. However, there is a corresponding and watch online. There is a growth in team e-sports that allow for assumption that the Council will provide for the increasing social connection during distancing. Some live sports are offering expectations of facilities. e-sport counterparts, and some are finding e-sports are driving Growth in community gyms interest in the sport (EA Sports’ FIFA series). The growth in demand for gyms where the commercial sector and local governments are not able to provide them, have seen Keeping seasonal pools running communities and clubs provide these. The declining financial return is favouring splash parks over outdoor pools that can teach swimming. This is challenging aging Artificial playing surfaces community pools that are unable to include everyone, while there is More sports rely on artificial playing surfaces, changing the a high demand for pools in locations with limited community economics of sport and maintenance needs. There is a reduced infrastructure, more stringent supervision standards, need for water time to raise capital for replacement, however yields higher carrying safety skills and desire for warm water and programs. capacities. Mildura Recreation Strategy - Issues 15 Key issues and preliminary directions 1. Council’s role in recreation Directions/Recommendations Issue 1. Clarify the nature of roles that the Recreation Planning and Development Unit Council’s role in increasing participation rates in sport and recreation needs to be has in relation to internal and external stakeholders: in terms of Provide, more clearly defined along with that of clubs/associations, sports peak bodies Deliver, Facilitate, Manage and Partner. and private organisations managing Council facilities. 2. The core functions of the Recreation Planning and Development Unit should Council receives many requests for assistance - that are beyond Council’s role. be as follows: Council facilitates programs in pools for example but doesn't run programs directly. 1. Facility Planning and Development Few other organisations other than Council have the opportunity and information 1. Provide recreation facility planning management and development expertise to promote available facilities. 2. Provide open space planning and management expertise Organisations like Sports have a broad role in encouraging people to be 3. Partner with and support recreation clubs and user groups active, especially those experiencing disadvantage and may work in partnership 4. Provide strategic planning and policy development advice with Council and peak sporting bodies. 5. Manage the preparation of master plans for reserves and recreation facilities Council’s plans do not identify a role in capacity building and support of clubs 6. Develop improved communication with stakeholders that are involved in and community organisations. However, this is considered critical to ensure facility provision and facility managers such as schools, DELWP, developers clubs can keep providing programs and services like sport, that Council can’t and private providers directly provide. 7. Direct the nature and priorities for Council recreation asset renewal/ As one of Victoria’s 10 regional cities, Mildura needs a suite of regional facilities management, maintenance and redevelopment and the prioritising of actions and needs the support of peak bodies and other partners to advocate for these. Sporting and recreation facilities are located on DELWP land and school land. 2. Support Local Sporting and Recreation Associations Clarity around Council’s role and subsidisation of facilities on others land is 8. Provide support, education and training for clubs and local associations in needed. issues related to organisational development, capacity building and sustainability Community comments 9. Facilitate and partner with other organisations to obtain funding from other ‘New or better facilities are probably one of the main things that Council can external sources help with in the sporting community’ Cricket Club

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 16 10. Communicate more with other partners, peak bodies, facility providers and Policy principles organisations about local needs and opportunities to deliver recreation opportunities Council has a role in: 11. Facilitate and manage a community grant program • Provision and management of infrastructure to enable participation and 12. Enhance awareness about how to deliver more equitable and accessible create equitable access to opportunities opportunities • Marketing available recreation opportunities to provide residents with 13. Support community and user groups to prepare strategic plans choice and encourage use • Programming these opportunities (through others) to target groups who 3. Facility Management need assistance and motivation to participate and enable people to 14. Collect and develop information about existing recreation opportunities for learn to be active and safe (ie swimming lessons) planning, management and promotion purposes • Supporting clubs, helping them to provide good quality services, 15. Facilitate programming, community development and marketing through building capacity and sustainability management arrangements for Council’s facilities • Directing project briefs and prioritise programs and facility development 16. Manage facilities - such as swimming pools by other departments for recreation infrastructure through the 17. Maintenance of sports grounds and support facilities Recreation Planning and Development Unit, which should be considered 18. Administer sportsgrounds and facility bookings and collect fees and charges the owner 19. Formalise communication and Council’s roles with clubs/user groups, • Ensuring that there is regular communication between Council associations and peak bodies, particularly over growing participation for departments that are active in recreation programs, asset management target groups and events 20. Provide input into occupancy agreements to ensure these are consistent • Providing support to user groups that provide sport/recreation with Unit’s objectives opportunities and activities • Providing support to volunteer community recreational organisations that 4. Programming and Promotion are based on DELWP, school, neighbouring LGA, other land authority, or 21. Facilitate, encourage and manage others (third parties) to deliver programs private land through schools, contract managers or health providers at Council facilities • Liaising with peak bodies and MSA who receive funds for increasing 22. Develop the recreation facilities inventory to include facilities such as trails participation in target groups 23. Provide a directory of sport and recreation facilities by activity and location, • Ensuring occupancy agreements should clearly specify roles and to promote opportunities available and those suitable to people of different responsibilities of all parties ages and abilities.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 17 2. Equity in sport and recreation Directions/Recommendations 24. Remove the physical barriers that prevent easy access to all sport and Issue recreation facilities, over time. Many facilities are not accessible or inclusive of a diverse population. 25. Work with key disability groups and NDIS to provide increased physical The development of a policy is also required to improve facilities and sports access and information about physical accessibility in facilities to help people administrators’ knowledge that will encourage greater participation by females, plan their activities. older adults, people with a disability, young people, indigenous groups, remote 26. Consider developing a grant program in conjunction with a partner to rural residents and other cultural and gender diverse groups (Target Groups). improve physical access to existing infrastructure. These target groups are much less likely to participate than the rest of the 27. Collect participation data by target groups from clubs who apply for population. sportsgrounds licences/user agreements. A greater understanding of the need for sport and community infrastructure in 28. Partner with external organisations to deliver and promote activities that remote communities is required as compared to urban communities. assist clubs in developing policies and programs that address equity issues. Costs, advertising/awareness and transport were identified as key influences 29. Work with partners that deliver suitable facilities and programs for high that could help support or encourage people who do not have access to participation activities such as Group Fitness. recreation opportunities due to race, culture, gender, residential location, income 30. Communicate with peak bodies to deliver accessible programs in MRCC. or other social barriers to be active or play sport. 31. Liaise with the Local Indigenous Network to encourage local indigenous Council no longer has a AAA officer or a champion to progress improving the residents to participate in sport and recreational activities. physical accessibility of ageing facilities, and ensure all new facilities are compliant and inclusive. Policy principles • Ensure physical accessibility is considered a priority in new capital works Community comments • That a set of criteria is developed for funding and supporting small ‘Females are arriving at games/training and still getting changed in their cars.’ isolated communities Peak Body • Provide a community grant program that encourages clubs/ “Although small town populations will decrease, there needs to be continued organisations to provide programs and initiatives for target groups investment in the wellbeing of the people who remain living there. Move away • Facilities should ensure social inclusion if they cannot be made physically from the 'Mildura-centric' approach.” accessible (i.e play facilities) “People are already burdened with the cost and time taken to travel to work and • Ensure equity in provision is considered when investing in infrastructure shop, without having to drive to another location to attend recreational opportunities.” “Sports that have smaller community participants need increased support to provide variety for an active lifestyle for different individuals”.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 18 The consultation identified the main types of improvements to off-road trails as 3. Encouraging participation through a making them longer, shadier, more looped and linked as well as provide more diversity of recreation opportunities trails along the river. Issue Create spaces for social sports that everyone can play - J-ball, frisbee golf, beach volleyball”. “Being active as a family …. walking, riding and scooting A good mix of facilities for organised and non-organised activities is required, in together down to the park.” addition to facilities available at different times of the day, and at no cost. “When I do play organised sport, I want it to be mid-week and only take a few A large number of requests were made by survey respondents for improvements hours. I love the short season that the Mildura Lawn Tennis Club do with their related to trails and places to walk or socialise dogs. twilight competitions as it's easier to commit to than playing traditional team Younger and older respondents tended to use off-road trails more than any sports.” other type of facilities. The Ouyen Lake is a great initiative, Off-leash Dog Park, The Community Garden Approximately 34% of respondents want to undertake sport or recreation is a great idea, Playgrounds and Parks have been upgraded. activities that they do not do now. Females accounted for 72% of those. The top non-sporting and recreation activities that residents would like to do but Directions/Recommendations they are unable to do are cycling - off road/ track, climbing, group exercise, 32. Review and update Council’s tracks and trails plan to create an extended archery, yoga, Pilates, aquatics fitness classes, and bushwalking. network of off-road trails, trail circuits, accessible routes and park perimeter The community survey found more social/family recreation parks are needed, in exercise circuits. addition to skate parks, additional fenced play spaces and those with better 33. Seek to provide at least one off-road trail circuit in every township/suburb. accessibility and higher play value. 34. Provide a good distribution of off-leash areas throughout the urban area for Community comments dog exercise and socialisation. 35. Prepare a recreation inventory that classifies facilities and open space by “It is not just about sport – really important to encourage a diversity of activity – function and landscape setting type, so a diversity of recreation experiences social and individual and non-club based, tracks and trails. Some 26% of the can be reserved for future generations. population are below the poverty line – the residents are not going to be 36. Continue the focus of work to enhance recreation opportunities along the participating in sport." river. Survey respondents identified Merbein common, from Curlwaa Bridge to Mildura 37. Investigate further water based recreation opportunities. to Red Cliffs to Colignan to Wemen,Red Cliffs and Nichols Point, Rio Vista trails, Right across the City, Irymple, Mildura, Dedicated single trail track, river reserves, Kings Billabong, and Curlwaa to Red Cliffs, to Nangiloc, Kulkyne Way, along river from Yelta to Colignan, between Mildura and Wentworth, Underbool and Ouyen and Murrayville, as the locations where mountain bike trails are required most.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 19 Policy principles • A diversity of recreation opportunities is needed in all communities, from organised sport, social and non-organised physical and environmental based activities • A continuum of settings from indoor to outdoor, quiet and contemplative as well as busy social spaces, and land- and water-based places to encourage a greater number of people to be physically and socially active • Opportunities for non-organised and social physical activity should be added to sporting reserves, as well as environmental components

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 20 Peak bodies haven’t been able to provide training cost-effectively to remote 4. Support of clubs and community areas, although with the COVID-19 pandemic, some are now providing more organisations online services. Issue Community comments ‘Grants can be a bit restricted for those who do not own facility’. Volleyball Current grant programs do not appear to meet the needs of the intended ‘Council could develop regular forums for all sports to discuss many things such targets as equity, participation issues, coaching education and facility issues and The main issues raised by the community about grants were that they did not opportunities.’ Peak Body provide enough funds for significant projects. Grant policies and processes ‘The current maximum amount for grants for facility improvements does not fund favour large and more commercially focused clubs and do not support those in any projects of a reasonable size or scope’. BMX Club. small rural communities who may have a greater need. Would be great if there was help in the writing of grants from state government.’ Football Club Clubs require assistance/education in the work required to attract Other forms of assistance Council could provide include: “better and more funding generally (both Council and other grant programs) regular communication with clubs”. Clubs say they need grant writing assistance and can’t get help. Some don’t know where to start. Some clubs are affiliated with SA or NSW peak bodies, and some serving Direction/Recommendations Mildura are based in NSW (eg. 2 cycling clubs). This provides difficulties for 38. Consider assisting small/remote clubs to match with buddy or mentor clubs clubs to access funds. elsewhere, as is common with bay and ocean life saving clubs. Clubs on crown land are charged for things such as water and rates, whereas 39. Consider the use of apps such as BeCollective to assist with recruiting those on Council land are not. While Council provides some assistance for these volunteers for small clubs. clubs, there is need for greater assistance with the additional costs. 40. Consider incremental funding upgrades to facilities using grants and Council funds for core works, clubs funding non-core works or making contributions Clubs need access to affordable training and assistance to increase to bring core works on sooner. their organisational capacity and sustainability 41. Work with peak bodies to develop local coaches, bring professionals and Clubs and community organisations need access to affordable training and training to Mildura - as well as online opportunities. professional development opportunities. Trainers often need minimum numbers 42. Provide greater clarity to grant assessment criteria and conditions and target of participants to come to the regions. Therefore, many clubs have to send specific objectives in internal grant programs. people to Melbourne for accreditation and training. This is difficult for volunteers 43. Use the priorities from this Plan to assess grant applications. and small organisations. Clubs may also need assistance with matters such as strategic planning, budgeting, governance, infrastructure design, development, and administration.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 21 “Locals feel lost as to where to start and are sick of watching the facilities 5. Contributions by clubs to the worsen and nothing new happening, even though we are willing to work and development of recreation facilities give to see things happen but the process is overwhelming and is often met with hurdles rather than assistance from those who have the knowledge of how to Issue get these projects happening”. When grant opportunities arise, Council’s position historically has been projects Directions/Recommendations that will be recommended are those where a resident club will provide a capital 44. Develop a Funding and Capital Contributions Policy for sporting and contribution. Projects are therefore not being assessed on merit or strategic recreation facilities for Council owned or managed land. This policy should priorities. focus on need, project merit and ability to meet strategic objectives. Clubs need financial assistance to develop facilities but some are based on non- 45. Ensure that infrastructure development priorities are consistent with the Council owned land, have a small membership base and have limited options to hierarchy of the recreation facilities as proposed. raise funds. 46. Utilise developer contributions to assist in development of recreation venues Once a club makes a capital contribution to facilities, they often perceive the and facilities. asset to be theirs. 47. Review the policy that requires clubs to contribute capital to projects. Different clubs have different abilities to raise money, such as the quality of the 48. Create a clear process for assessing investment prioritisation and grants for facility they use, the provision of kitchen and bars, and the ability to take a gate major infrastructure projects. for example. However, only clubs who can charge a gate are charged for ground use. Policy principles Community comments • For each category of facility, core facilities (field of play and support facilities) should be specified and priorities based on the capital works “Council should review its unwritten "policy" about 50-50 matching co- priorities provided. Non-core works will be funded by club or other contributions to facility construction. This is not realistic for community-based sources sports/recreation associations/club to be able to generate sufficient capital on • Clubs may contribute to capital works to increase their priority their own to fund appropriate facilities (which end up being council asset leased • That a base standard of facility be provided to clubs and that clubs back to the user).” “This is not feasible and holding back the community.” should not have to contribute to the construction of the core ‘Clubs should definitely contribute to capital facilities.’ Soccer Club components. This includes the provision of a field/ground/court, toilets, ‘Feel that clubs should contribute towards facilities. May be different depending change rooms and lighting on the clubs ability to raise money (i.e. gate takings etc.).’ Football Club • Clubs that contribute to capital projects should receive fee reductions for ‘50/50 or less on our behalf is acceptable.’ Football and Netball Club a fixed period ‘Very hard to find money with 28 members.’‘Council does not own the land, so contributes less to their projects generally.’ Bowling Club.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 22 6. Fees and charges Issue Directions/Recommendations Council contributes significantly to maintaining sporting facilities, amenities and 49. Assess Council’s own costs of providing and managing each venue, as well surfaces (A sporting reserve is about $50,000 a year to maintain including as Club costs so that everyone may also know and manage these costs. mowing grass and providing water). 50. Clarify the responsibility of the seasonal/monthly/weekly maintenance tasks The current Fees and Charges may not reflect the existing quality of facilities, the between clubs and Council, and ensure consistency across each code. Club’s size or ability to pay, nor the role and costs of Council and the club. 51. Review existing subsidies for clubs and groups on Crown land. Clubs that pass on these costs in annual membership fees may discourage participation. Policy principles The community believes that the cost of sport is a huge issue, and in some • Sport and Recreation facilities are a public good that should be provided locations there are inequities in what clubs pay. and managed by public funds. Those who take up the choice to use them should contribute to the marginal cost of that use. The cost of use Community comments will need to be subsidised, as these assets cannot make a profit and the ‘There should be fees, but it should be balanced with the need to promote sport clubs who use them generate significant benefits by delivering sporting in all of its different facets’ opportunities to residents ‘Playing fees seem to be high, considering the supplied facilities’. • That club annual fees be based on a percentage of annual venue ’Consider the costs to players and sporting groups and how this impact on maintenance costs that Council provide, and the standard of ground attracting players into their sport’ • That Clubs are responsible for utility charges ‘Large clubs that have sponsors should not receive as much assistance from • That Council introduce a grading system for grounds, that provides a Council.’ basis for service provision and annual fees are based on the standard of ‘Surely our rates and taxes are enough that we pay to be able to enjoy facility recreational spaces without having to be charged extra!’ • Those clubs with an opportunity to generate funds from a facility Council has provided should contribute to covering the costs of use

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 23 7. Recreation facility investment Directions/Recommendations 52. Develop a hierarchy of facilities - Local, Subregional and Regional (See priorities attachment) and a grading of playing surfaces (e.g A, B,C) that guide the nature and quality of service offered and the suitable scale and quality of Issue services, provided at each level in the hierarchy. Clubs and the community identified many improvements required of sporting 53. Introduce relatively standard core components to buildings - based on the and recreation infrastructure. facilities hierarchy. Guidance is required on how to fairly prioritise capital works programs for sport 54. Develop a capital works priority framework that has multiple criteria and and recreation projects in urban and rural areas, and for high participation and apply weightings according to Council/priorities. This should consider low participation sports. remoteness, membership size, target group, as well as or instead of Many clubs do not share their facilities - sometimes these are on the same population size. ground as others - and they may all need renewal. 55. Consolidate buildings on reserves wherever possible, and introduce Council doesn’t have a measure on when a facility reaches the end of its life, incentives for clubs to share facilities for sport or community uses. they currently rely on what clubs say. Functional life for sport and leisure is much 56. Devise guidelines on colocating or sharing facilities with schools and other shorter than the buildings life. This is a good opportunity to move toward a community organisations. shared infrastructure model. 57. Develop a Recreation Infrastructure Funding Policy for facilities on Council Joint school projects have been problematic, however in smaller, more remote owned or managed land that focuses on need, project merit and ability to communities schools are sometimes the most important hub, yet may be under- meet strategic objectives. utilised. Relationships with schools are essential for a club’s survival. Principles identified that underpin the plan can be used to prioritise capital A proposed criteria for prioritising capital works projects is provided on the works. (See existing principles to review on the following page). following page. These criteria should be weighted and used as a check list for assessing priorities and grants. Community comments The existing principles have been drawn out of Councils current plans in this ‘Council need to prioritise watering’ document, however these need to be refined for the purpose for guiding ‘Council heavily subsidises Mildura grounds but seems to do less in the more investment in recreation, and priorities. regional areas.’ The inventory provided in Attachment 3 provides recommendations for capital Sport and Recreation Victoria recommended reviewing Mt Alexander works from previous plans, and the community engagement process for this ‘Resourcing Recreation’ document. Strategy.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 24 The following relevant principles have been derived from existing Council’s plans. One additional principle: ‘Support and Sustainability of Clubs’ has been added to reflect issues raised in this plan by the community and Council staff. These types of principles can be used to inform and prioritise investment decisions. The Recreation Strategy will refine these principles to apply to recreation

EXISTING policy principles

• INCREASING PARTICIPATION • ACCESS FOR ALL • DIVERSITY • QUALITY • ADEQUATE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY • INCLUSION IN COMMUNITY • GOOD MENTAL HEALTH Type to enter text • HEALTHY & SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENTS • WELL PLANNED AND MAINTAINED FACILITIES • WELL DEVELOPED LONG-TERM LAND USE • ACTIVATED RIVERFRONT • SUPPORT AND SUSTAINABILITY OF CLUBS • ENCOURAGE EVENTS FOR ECONOMIC BENEFIT Criteria for prioritising infrastructure

PRINCIPLES IN THIS CRITERIA FOR PRIORITISING CAPITAL WORKS PRINCIPLES IN THIS CRITERIA FOR PRIORITISING CAPITAL WORKS PLAN PLAN

Increasing participation Will attract additional proportion of participants Well developed long-term Reflects colocation, shared use or consolidation or shared use Addresses an established gap in demand land use of support facilities Is in a growth area or growth phase Adjacent to a school Contributes to a better pathway for the sport Activated riverfront Contributes to the implementation of, or is consistent with the Access for all Will encourage at least one target group to participate river masterplan Meet Access to Premises standards Results in more equitable distribution Support of and Enables a club to grow and develop better service or enhance Can be used all year, and for social sports/casual use sustainability of clubs financial sustainability Supports access to/development of a smaller sport that can Diversity Will target or encourage a wider range of participants eg. age share group or cultural group Adds to range of activities on the site Attract economic benefits Enables regional or higher level events, in addition to serving a to the city local need Quality Is consistent with the hierarchy of the ground Ability to attract grants or partners in development. Nature of development is consistent with the state bodies, strategic plan, and hierarchy of the facility

Adequate physical activity Support a physical activity initiative

Inclusion in community Supports a social connection need, or initiative, or non player involvement in addition to physical activity - eg. access for other community uses SEIFA Index and remoteness - as an indication of additional need

Good mental health Provides support and physical activity initiatives outdoors

Healthy and sustainable Reduces energy consumption or enhances long term environments sustainability of a club or asset

Well planned and Development will rejuvenate an asset that has passed its useful maintained buildings and life facilities Opportunities to share support facilities and total building footprint, make more functional and cost effective to manage

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 26 8. Strategy review and development Directions/Recommendations 58. Develop strategies for key areas that will influence greater participation in Issue sport and recreation in the region and create a diversity of recreation There are a number of Council strategy gaps that exist which should support the opportunities accessible to the widest range of the population. role that Council plays in Recreation and Sport. 59. Support key participation sports to develop strategies (football/cricket). There are also a number of strategies, policies and other documents which are 60. Review and update Council’s track and trails plan to create an extended outdated and require review. An emphasis should be placed on ensuring up-to- network of off-road trails, trail circuits, accessible routes and park perimeter date and relevant strategies are in place. exercise circuits. Water-based recreation and non-organised recreation opportunities are not 61. Include the following issues in a Play Strategy: opportunities to enhance play covered by any strategic plan. value, inclusive design, a focus on parks for play rather than equipment, and Strategic guidance on the design and distribution of play spaces is also not not replacing equipment with like with like. addressed in any current plan. 62. Identify opportunities to consolidate or rationalise community buildings on A proposed document hierarchy is provided below, identifying existing plans and open space and encourage sharing of sporting infrastructure by community proposed plans that should be considered. organisations. 63. Ensure the Recreation Planning Unit is responsible for the implementation and updating of the recreation components of the Council and Community Plan. 64. Recommend that funding be allocated for the review of this plan within 5 years and an implementation of this Plan and key outcomes become part of key result areas for the department. Policy principle • That Council include in its plan a policy that supports volunteer clubs and strengthens the capacity of community organisations in delivering community recreation opportunities, becoming self-sustaining and inclusive organisations

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 27 Attachments

1. Proposed hierarchy of facilities proposed 2. Mildura peak body and club membership data 3. Mildura Rural City facility inventory - and actions from this and previous plans 4. Review of peak body plans 5. National and State Plans 6. Trail related actions recommended by the community 7. Potential participation 8. Benchmarking 9. Fees and charges; principles

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 28 1. Proposed Hierarchy Of Facilities A hierarchy of facilities can assist in creating equity and consistency in service . HIERARCHY The hierarchy should have three levels and account for: The catchment the facility serves, local residents, visitors, and residents LOCAL Intended to serve the immediate local area. These may also be overflow, • training or school facilities where another township or regional facility exists across the MRCC and its borders in the one area. • The core components required for each level There may be more than one local facility of the same type in the same • The standard of facility required to serve each ie local-school, training, local area, due to historical development or settlement pattern. Typical a local facility will not provide for visitors, or spectator facilities and development programs etc., and for subregional-domestic competition, the standard of playing surface and infrastructure will be reflective of the and regional-representative/regional events short duration of stay. It may provide for multiple codes or activities, ie • The number of this type of facility football and cricket. • How they are distributed TOWNSHIP A township facility is typically a facility designed for competition and some • The degree of sharing possible spectators, capable of hosting the highest level of competition and training for local associations based within the municipality. A township facility should also cater for more than one code or activity.

REGIONAL Regional level facilities are the highest order facilities in the hierarchy serving a catchment extending beyond the borders of the MRCC. Regional facilities will be constructed to a standard capable of hosting an elite level of competitive sport, such as AFL/VFL football, Premier League football, or Premier cricket and finals for regional sporting associations and will meet sporting code requirements for a regional standard facility and provide higher levels of spectator comfort and social facilities to service longer durations of stay. Regional facilities may, due to their specific field of play requirements may not cater for more than one activity.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 29 Examples of the hierarchy of sports facilities (Section supplied by Council)

Regional Sporting Reserves

Mildura South Regional Sports Precinct Old Aerodrome Sporting Complex (OASC) Mildura South Regional Sports Precinct is currently a greenfield site and is Located in Mildura, this reserve is a major multipurpose outdoor sporting facility proposed to be developed as a regional indoor and outdoor sports complex comprising: comprising regional standard outdoor sports facilities including: • Football pitches (x5) • Major event oval with fenced playing area with dimensions and surfaces to • Cricket ovals (x2) meet AFL and Cricket event requirements, with provision for a turf wicket • Softball/baseball diamonds block • Cricket/touch fields • Major event playing and training area that can be reconfigured into a range • Athletics track of multi-use sport playing ovals or pitches and training fields • Hockey pitch • Shared main pavilion of two team change and amenity spaces and • BMX track separate event official’s amenities plus storage and office areas • Pavilions/clubrooms and amenities buildings • Grandstand for up to 500 seats linked at first floor into function spaces. Within the OASC there are other specific sports facilities such as BMX. Regional standard indoor sport and recreation complex incorporating: • Six netball courts suitable for competition and training uses • Four squash courts • Outdoor open space including: - Car park and access road off Deakin Avenue. - Planning for the eastern perimeter road linking 16th Street to Deakin Avenue. - Storm water retention area - Parkland, walking and cycle trails, playground etc.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 30 Township Sporting Reserves Mildura Recreation Reserve Blackburn Park Recreation Reserve Facilities and structures include: Blackburn Park Recreation Reserve is located in Ouyen. The reserve has a mix • Main oval with AFL goal posts, turf wicket table, collapsible interchange of land ownership. The main sporting precinct that includes the oval, netball facilities, scoreboard and training floodlights facilities and the lawn bowls club is owned by the Department of Environment, • Second oval with AFL goal posts, turf wicket table, interchange facilities, Land, Water and Planning. This part of the reserve is managed by a committee terraced spectator areas, scoreboard and training floodlights under a licence agreement with the department. • Third smaller oval with turf wicket table and training floodlights • Cricket training nets The harness racing track is largely freehold land owned by Council which has a • 2 x plexipave netball courts lease agreement with the Ouyen Harness Racing Club for use of the facility. A • Social Rooms small section of the harness racing track is owned by the DELWP who have a • Change rooms licence agreement with Council. • Function centre (occupied by football club) • Harness racing track (length 810m), fenced both sides, lighting, and The reserve includes: stewards towers • Sports field for cricket and football • Horse stables (approx. 100) • 2 x netball courts • Two storey pavilion (occupied by harness racing club), bookmakers area, • Skate and BMX facility storage facilities • Playground • Grandstand including toilets, undercover storage/vendor facilities • 2 x lawn bowls green • Car parking areas • 3 x sporting pavilions (football / cricket, netball, lawn bowls) and associated • Office space sheds • Irrigation infrastructure storage • Harness racing track and associated pavilion and stable infrastructure • Poultry Sheds • SES Headquarters • Fire training track • Water storage tanks

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 31 Henshilwood Reserve Kenny Park Henshilwood Reserve is located in Irymple 8 kilometres south of Mildura and is Kenny Park is crown land (DELWP) with Council the designated committee of approximately 22.4 hectares in size. The reserve is owned by council (freehold) management. Tenant groups use the park under a lease or service agreement which has lease agreements with clubs that tenant the reserve. with Council. It is approximately 5.7 hectares in size and includes: The reserve includes: • 2 x sports fields for football, cricket and soccer-football • 1 x sports field for cricket and football • 2 x bowling greens • 1 x netball court • 2 x croquet greens • 2 x bowling greens • 8 x tennis courts • 2 x soccer training fields • Small playground • Bocce centre • Merbein Girl Guide Hall • Croatian Club clubrooms • Merbein outdoor swimming pool • Indoor leisure centre with a stadium, function rooms and 2 squash courts • Rotunda and community celebrations area • Various pavilions and storage sheds • Picnic and BBQ facilities • Irymple Swimming Pool • Large open space / events area • Playground Quandong Park Johansen Reserve Quandong Park is owned by Council (freehold) which has lease agreements with Johansen Reserve is approximately 27.3 hectares in size and is located on the clubs that tenant the reserve. It is approximately 26 hectares in size and southern edge of Lake Cullulleraine. The reserve is crown land (Department of includes: Environment, Land, Water and Planning) with Council the designated committee • 5 x sports fields for cricket (3 turf and 2 synthetic wickets), football and of management. Tenant groups use the park under a lease agreement with baseball council. The reserve includes: • 15 x grass tennis courts • 2 x sports field for cricket and football and associated pavilion and play • 2 x croquet greens equipment • 1 x hard court netball court • 1 x court currently being constructed • CFA training track • Tennis courts and associated pavilion and play equipment • 6 x pavilions and change rooms • Sea scout facilities • Various sheds and storage facilities • Yacht club facilities including a clubhouse and storage shed • Playground • Picnic and BBQ facilities • Various open space areas • Bushman’s Rest Caravan Park including the RSL (accommodation) facilities • Foreshore playground • 10 kilometre walking track (around the lake)Kenny Park

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 32 Local Sporting Reserves Murrayville Recreation Reserve Chaffey Park Murrayville Recreation Reserve is crown land (Department of Environment Land, Chaffey Park is crown land (DELWP) with Council the designated committee of Water and Planning) with Council the designated committee of management. management. Tenant groups use the park under a lease agreement or service Tenant groups use the park under a lease agreement with Council. It is agreement with council. Chaffey Park is approximately 4.8 hectares in size and approximately 49 hectares in size and includes: includes: • 1 x sports field for football and cricket • 1 x sports field for cricket, baseball and football (training only) • 2 x netball courts • Skate facility • 6 x grass tennis courts • CFA training track • 9 hole golf course and clubhouse • 1 x playground • Sport and community social facility • Picnic and BBQ facilities • Football change pavilion/kiosk Nichols Point Recreation Reserve Nangiloc Recreation Reserve Nichols Point Recreation Reserve is located approximately 5 kilometres south- Nangiloc Recreation Reserve is crown land (DELWP) with council the designated east of Mildura and is approximately 2.8 hectares in size. The reserve is owned committee of management for all of the reserve apart from the public hall. Tenant by Council (freehold) which has lease agreements with clubs that tenant the groups use the reserve under a lease agreement with Council. The reserve reserve. The reserve is also used on a regular basis by the Nichols Point Primary committee of management has a lease directly with the DELWP for the public School, and includes: hall. It is approximately 8 hectares in size and includes: • 1 x sports field for cricket, rugby and soccer (training only) • 1 x sports fields for football and cricket • 1 x pavilion and various sheds and structures • 1 x bowling green • Disused tennis courts • 2 x tennis courts • Nichols Point Public Hall • 1 x netball court Underbool Recreation Reserve • Public hall • Playground Underbool Recreation Reserve is crown land and is managed by a committee • Large grassed open space area that is responsible directly to the DELWP. It is approximately 11.6 hectares in size and includes: • 1 x sports field for football and cricket • 2 x netball courts/3 x tennis courts • 2 x gypsum tennis courts • Pavilion • Football change rooms / netball change room

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 33 Cardross Recreation Reserve Walpeup Recreation Reserve Cardross Recreation Reserve is located 15.5 kilometres south of Mildura and is Walpeup Recreation Reserve is owned by the Department of Environment Land, approximately 4.4 hectares in size. The reserve is owned by council (freehold) Water and Planning (state government) and is managed by a committee under a which has lease agreements with clubs that tenant the reserve. licence agreement with the department. It is located 133 kilometres approximately south of Mildura and is approximately 14 hectares in size. The The reserve includes: reserve includes: • 1 x sports field for cricket and football • 1 x sports field for cricket (concrete wicket) • 2 x netball courts • 4 x tennis courts • Football pavilion (old) • Pavilion • Cricket pavilion (old) • New change rooms and public toilet Torrita Recreation Reserve • Playground Torrita Recreation Reserve includes: • Oval • Tennis courts • Pavilion

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 34 2. Mildura Peak Body And Club Membership Data

Athletic Basket Soccer- Aust. Baseball Table Cricket Shooting Swimming Cycling Cycling Cycling Netball Lawn Volley Equestrian Tenpin Hockey Tennis Rugby s (Little) ball football Rules tennis BMX MTB Bowls ball Bowling League Football

Peak body 212 1,272 787 2,550 272 96 2,790 992 232 584 226 532 1,643 516 71 23 115 477 816 303 membership Mildura LGA

Mildura and District 201 Little Athletics Club

Three Colours 120 Soccer Club

Nichols Point 190 Soccer Club

Werrimull Football 120 120 Netball Club

South Mildura 250 250 Football Netball Club

Nangiloc Football 65 60 Netball Club

Irymple Football 70 36 Netball Club

Merbein Football 400 120 Netball Club

Hawks Baseball 77 Club

Saints Baseball 70 Club

Mildura East Cricket 104 Club

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 35 Athletic Basket Soccer- Aust. Baseball Table Cricket Shooting Swimming Cycling Cycling Cycling Netball Lawn Volley Equestrian Tenpin Hockey Tennis Rugby s (Little) ball football Rules tennis BMX MTB Bowls ball Bowling League Football

Merbein South 100 Cricket Club

Nichols Point 190 Cricket Club

Irymple Cricket 130 Club

Mildura West 124 Cricket Club

Nursery Ridge 52 Cricket Club

Mildura Clay Target 100 Club

Irymple Swimming 48 Club

Mildura Swimming 55 Club

Mildura BMX Club 226

Coomealla Mildura 110 Mountainless Bike Club

Murrayville Bowls 29 Club

Ouyen Bowling 42 Club

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 36 3. MIldura Rural City Facility Inventory And Actions From Previous Plans And Consultation

Facility Name Suburb Street Address Description Master or Previous Plan Actions Recreation Plan Consultation

Cardross Corner of Dairtnunk Home to the Cardross Football and Netball Club, and Pavilion upgrade at recreation reserve plus the Cardross Recreation Avenue and Torney Cardross Cricket Club. It has one Australian Rules potential building of a new pavilion Reserve Road, Cardross, 3496 Football grass field with a turf cricket pitch, 3 cricket Creation of a pedestrian area at the recreation training nets along with two concrete plexipave netball reserve courts. Addition of two lighting towers on the oval Tree planting and bollards with seating to form an oval perimeter Sporting Shooters Cardross Mayal Street Sporting Shooters Association Association Range Extension, Cardross, 3496 Yatpool Rifle Range Carwarp Calder Highway Where Mildura/Red Cliffs Rifle Club are based Carwarp, 3494 Colignan Community Colignan Corner Kulkyne Way Colignan Swimming Pool Recreation Reserve and Grace Road Mud Hut building set in spacious grounds on old Colignan, 3494 Colignan school site. Close to Murray River and Hattah National Park near Mildura accessible by sealed road. Swimming pool opening hours November to March every year. Camping facilities, hot showers and toilets.

Colignan Swimming Colignan 8 Grace Road, A pool that has one outdoor pool and a toddlers pool Pool Colignan, 3494

Johansen Reserve Cullulleraine Sturt Highway, Johansen Reserve is a community reserve situated at Johansen Reserve Upgrade kitchen to include Cullulleraine, 3496 Lake Cullulleraine, offering a waterside playground, Environmental management (erosion drinking water, storage and shaded barbecue areas and public toilets for management, regeneration of vegetation) improved power supply. residents and visitors. Oval 1 upgrade Investigate demand for a 2nd There are two grass Australian Rules football grounds Traffic management including caravan traffic & netball court that also has one concrete plexipave court for Netball parking and there are 14 grass outdoor tennis courts, making Beautification and entrance upgrades (including it home to the Milwella Tennis Club trail entrance)

Coomella Golf Club Dareton 42 Kookaburra Drive, Home to the Coomella/Mildura Mountainless Bike (NSW) Dareton, 2717 Club

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 37 Facility Name Suburb Street Address Description Master or Previous Plan Actions Recreation Plan Consultation

Henshilwood Irymple Karadoc Avenue, Henshilwood Reserve is a large community reserve Henshilwood Recreation Reserve Update Master Plan for Reserve Recreation Reserve Irymple, 3498 providing ball courts and ovals for a range of sports, Add new training area SE of reserve boundary and investigate demand for as well as shaded barbecue areas, a playground and Upgrade oval lighting larger social rooms, public toilets on site. Car parking and sealing upgrades construction of a junior ground, It is home to the Irymple Football and Netball Club, New playground and accompanying toilets consider feasibility of installing and Cricket Club. Construction of new spectator hill and terracing electronic scoreboard, It has one grass oval for Australian Rules Football in front of pavilion improved storage and number which also has a turf cricket pitch. It is also home to Realignment of cricket nets and placement of bins. the Irymple Knights Soccer Club, which has one grass soccer pitch. It also has two concrete plexipave netball courts Irymple Secondary Irymple 975 Karadoc Avenue, Across the road from Henshilwood Recreation College Irymple, 3496 Reserve the school has one oval used for Australian rules football and cricket and 1 outdoor asphalt netball/ basketball court Irymple Bocce Club Irymple Fifteenth Street, Situated behind Henshilwood Oval Irymple, 3498 Irymple Bowls Club Irymple Fifteenth Street, Situated behind the Senior Citizens Centre and Irymple, 3498 Irymple Swimming Pool. Has two greens for bowling, one that is artificial turf and one that is grass. Irymple Community Irymple Karadoc Avenue, Irymple Community Leisure Centre hosts the Mildura Investigate feasibility of Leisure Centre Irymple, 3498 District Badminton Club, the Irymple Tigers Basketball constructing a second Club, Mildura Squash Incorporated, the basketball court to accomodate Table Tennis Association and the Sunraysia Volleyball additional sport court use Association. It has four wooden flooring courts for including basketball and Badminton, one wooden indoor gymnasium court for volleyball. Basketball/Netball, two courts for Squash/ Consider appointment of sports Racquetball, one space available for Table Tennis, coordinator that promotes and three wooden flooring courts available for Volleyball supports existing user groups. and a space for martial arts. Irymple Swimming Irymple Fifteenth Street, Irymple Swimming Pool is open to the community Update Aquatic Strategy and Pool Irymple, 3498 between November and March. Has a 30 metre consider improvements to pool outdoor pool and a toddlers pool. surrounds, upgrade of Clubhouse facilities and viability of extending operating hours in November until 7pm. Lions Park Irymple 12 Hassell Court, Lions Park is a community park offering a playground Irymple, 3498 and public toilets for residents and families.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 38 Facility Name Suburb Street Address Description Master or Previous Plan Actions Recreation Plan Consultation

Jambaroon Park Koorlong Corner of Twentieth Home to North West Victoria Motorcycle Club. The club is keen to remain at Jambaroo and Twenty Third Has a State and National-standard dirt track, Park given substantial investments in Street Koorlong, motocross track and enduro loop. infrastructure and facilities 3501 The Club leases 40 acres of land from the DELWP.

Mildura Pistol Club Koorlong Magnum Avenue, Home to Mildura Small Bore Rifle Club Koorlong, 3501 Sunraysia Aero Koorlong 54 Twenty-third Street, Modellers Koorlong, 3501

Sunraysia Gliding Koorlong 364 Sheoak Avenue, Home to Sunraysia Gliding club and Mildura Field Koorlong, 3501 International Balloon Fiesta. Entrance via Conroys Track Koorlong 120 Mercer Street, Sunraysia Drag Racing Association manages a A Business Case and master plan has been Sunraysia Motor Sports Club Mildura Motorsports Koorlong, 3501 bitumen 1/8 mile drag strip and associated facilities completed to plan for the further development of requires a dirt track of between and Community Sunraysia Motor Sports Club previously operated a the precinct for motor sports. Facilities include a 15-45 kilometres in length for Precinct - Block H 15 kilometres dirt track for off-road racing circuit 3km bitumen race track, 450 metre sq skid pan, its events and runs the Dirtworx Moto Park includes a number of junior and 800 metre spits area, control tower, lighting, Sunraysia 600 on private senior dirt motocross tracks. sealed 300 space car park, function suite and property away from this site camping, Chaffey Park Merbein 10 River Avenue, Chaffey Park is a community reserve providing the Chaffey Park - Upgrade toilet facilities at park. Merbein, 3505 Merbein community with a playground and Upgraded and extended pavilion to cater for barbecues, ideal for gatherings with friends and multiple sports family. Two turf Cricket pitches and a Baseball pitch Upgrade playing surface and irrigation are located here. Cricket Club and Completion of skate facilities and landscaping Saints Baseball Club play here. Additional greening of park The Merbein Urban Fire Brigade (CFA) are based at the fire track.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 39 Facility Name Suburb Street Address Description Master or Previous Plan Actions Recreation Plan Consultation

Kenny Park Merbein Box Street, Merbein, Kenny Park is a community reserve in the heart of Kenny Park – Investigate feasibility of installing Recreation Reserve 3505 Merbein providing ball courts and ovals for a range of Upgrading/realigning ovals competition level lights for sports, a playground, shaded barbecue areas and Upgrading football/netball pavilion to include cricket public toilets on site for residents and visitors. Home change rooms and public toilets Consider installation of a to Kenny Park Tennis Club, which has eight outdoor Completion of swimming pool works second turf wicket to asphalt tennis courts. It is also home to the Merbein Realign internal road network to reduce conflict consolidate club in one Football Club and Merbein South Cricket Club, who Provide new netball courts location. have two grass playing fields for Australian Rules Provide water to rotunda area Football and one turf and one synthetic Cricket pitch Note: Community Plan recommends: for Cricket with 3 training nets. Also home to the Plan to resurface tennis courts, new fencing, Mildura City Soccer Club, where there is one grass new clubrooms field for soccer. There is also two greens for Croquet, Looking to improve safety at the skate park one artificial turf pitch and one grass pitch along with Swimming pool potential additions - add a cover two plexipave courts for Netball. Kenny Park also host for pool, water splash area, complete the an annual rodeo on the No. 3 oval upgrade of children’s pools, upgrade change rooms, better storage areas Plan to add an outdoor basketball court and BMX track in future.

Merbein Bowls Club Merbein Smith Street, Merbein, Has three bowling greens, one which is grass and 3505 two which is artificial turf. Merbein Community Merbein Main Avenue North, Home to Merbein Senior Citizens Hub Merbein, 3505

Merbein Golf Club Merbein 355 McEdward Street, Has one eighteen hole golf course open to the public Merbein, 3505

Merbein Prep-10 Merbein 188 Commercial Meringur Football Club is based here for training College Street, Merbein, 3505

Merbein Skate Park Merbein River Avenue, Merbein Skate Park is a professionally designed Merbein, 3505 facility for young BMX, skateboard and scooter users to enjoy. Merbein Swimming Merbein Box Street, Merbein, The Merbein Swimming Pool is open to the Pool 3505 community between November and March. Has an outdoor 25 metre pool and two toddlers pools. O’Bryan Street Merbein O'Bryan Street, O'Bryan Street Playground is a community park Playground Merbein, 3505 offering a playground for Merbein residents and families.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 40 Facility Name Suburb Street Address Description Master or Previous Plan Actions Recreation Plan Consultation

Alfred Deakin, Mildura Mildura Corner Deakin Avenue Home to Sunraysia Swimming Association. Has a 25 Waves Aquatic and and Twelfth Street, metre indoor pool, a 50 metre outdoor pool, a pool Leisure Centre Mildura, 3500 for diving, a recreation/play water space, spa/sauna and toddlers pool with a health club and group exercise studio APEX Park Mildura 435 Cureton Avenue, Lifesaving club, home to the Mildura Canoe Club, Ski Mildura, 3500 Club, Triathlon Club, Mildura and District Canoe Club and Canoeing Victoria. Bingara Park Mildura 12 Bingarra Close, Bingara Park is a community park offering a Mildura 3500 playground for local residents and families. Birralee Avenue Mildura Birralee Avenue, Birralee Avenue Reserve is a community park offering Reserve Mildura, 3500 a playground for local residents and families.

Brodie Park Mildura 22A Brodie Close, Brodie Park is a community park offering a Mildura, 3500 playground for local residents and families. Bruce Bawden Mildura Twelfth Street, Mildura, Adjacent to Mildura Recreation Reserve No.1 Oval, Pavilion 3500 where the Mildura and District Gem and Mineral Club

Buxton - Sobee Park Mildura Buxton Place, Mildura, Buxton - Sobee Park is a community park offering a 3500 playground and basketball court to local residents, as well as shaded barbecue areas ideal for family gatherings. Chaffey Secondary Mildura 261-289 Deakin One Australian Rules playing field, one soccer pitch College Avenue, Mildura, 3500 and one cricket pitch

Club Aquarius Mildura 47 Seventh Street, Private gym facility based on crown land. Mildura, 3500 Dunning Wetlands Mildura Ontario Park Drive, Dunning Wetlands Reserve is a community park Reserve Mildura, 3500 offering residents walking paths, a playground and barbecues, ideal for gatherings with friends and family. Fit Mildura Mildura 636 Fifteenth Street, Private gym facility based on crown land. Mildura, 3500

Fitness Master Mildura 28 Lemon Avenue, Private gym facility based on crown land. Mildura, 3500 Flamingo Park Mildura 29A Flamingo Drive, Flamingo Park is a community park offering a Mildura, 3500 playground for local residents and families.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 41 Facility Name Suburb Street Address Description Master or Previous Plan Actions Recreation Plan Consultation

Green Pines Park Mildura 11-12 Muscat Court, Green Pines Park is a community park offering Mildura, 3500 walking paths, basketball court and a playground for local residents and families. Hollywood Boulevard Mildura 576 Deakin Avenue, Hollywood Boulevard Reserve is a community park Reserve Mildura, 3500 offering walking paths and a playground for local residents and families. Hornsey Park Mildura 71 Hornsey Park, Hornsey Park is a community park offering a Mildura, 3500 playground and basketball court to local residents and families. Japan Karate Mildura 42C Deakin Avenue, Home to Japan Karate Association Association Mildura, 3500

Jaycee Park Mildura Hugh King Drive, Jaycee Park is a large community park along the Mildura, 3500 Mildura riverfront offering playgrounds, shaded barbecue areas and public toilets on site for residents and visitors. Kalimna Park Mildura 3 Kalimna Drive, Kalimna Park is a community park offering a Mildura, 3500 playground for local residents and families. Lake Hawthorn Mildura Seventeenth Street, Sailing Club Mildura, 3500

Lifestyle Plus Indoor Mildura 3 King Avenue, Indoor Sports Centre for beach volleyball, indoor Sports Centre Mildura, 3500 cricket, indoor netball and futsal. There is one sand arena for Beach Volleyball, three carpet playing surfaces for Futsal – Indoor Soccer, three carpet playing surfaces for indoor cricket and three carpet playing surfaces for indoor netball. Linton Park Mildura 3 Linton Court, Linton Park is a community park offering a playground Mildura, 3500 for residents and families. MADEC Community Mildura 133-137 Madden Sunraysia Spinners and Weavers Club, Mildura College Avenue, Mildura, 3500 Rostrum Club, Mildura Penguin Club and Sunraysia Bird Observation and Conservation Club are all based here. Mansell Reserve Mildura 218-228 Eighth Street, Mansell Reserve is a community reserve providing ball Complete Master Plan for Mildura, 3500 courts for a range of sports, as well as a playground Reserve and consider future and public toilets on site. use of netball courts. Home to Mildura Croquet Club and Mildura Netball Provide netball umpire Association. There is a grass surface for Croquet and development courses. 12 asphalt plexipave outdoor Netball Courts

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 42 Facility Name Suburb Street Address Description Master or Previous Plan Actions Recreation Plan Consultation

Meadow Grove Park Mildura 4A Fush Place, Meadow Grove Park is a community park offering a Mildura, 3500 playground and barbecue areas for residents and families. Mildura Airport No.2 Mildura Alan Mathews Drive, Mildura Desert Drivers Club’s clubrooms are based OUT Building Mildura, 3500 here.

Mildura Basketball Mildura 50 Eighth Street Mildura Basketball Association are based here along Stadium (Toyota (Corner of Eighth with the Mildura Hawks Basketball Club. Has four Hothouse) Street and King timber gymnasium courts. Avenue) Mildura, 3500

Mildura Bowls Club Mildura Cureton Avenue Mildura Bowling Club and Mildura Workingman’s Extension (opposite Bowling Club. Two grass bowling greens are here. Mildura Arts Centre), Mildura, 3500

Mildura District Band Mildura 99 Eighth Street, Mildura District Brass Band Hall Mildura, 3500

Mildura Dragon Boat Mildura 91-125 Etiwanda Club Avenue, Mildura, 3500

Mildura Golf Resort Mildura Twelfth Street, Mildura, An 18 hole Golf Course open to the public 3500 Mildura Horse Mildura Cowra Avenue, North West Victoria Adult Riding Club Complex Mildura, 3500

Mildura Go Kart Mildura 3325 Walnut Avenue, Home to Mildura Kart Club located next to Mildura A move to the motor sport precinct in the Raceway Mildura 3500 Airport. Facilities include a 801m hot mix track. future will allow an extension of track length offering the opportunity to hold state or national events Mildura Lawn Club Mildura Hugh King Drive, Home to Mildura Lawn Tennis complex. Forty grass Tennis Complex Mildura, 3500 outdoor tennis courts are here.

Mildura Radio Mildura 468 Eleventh St Home of the Mildura Radio Controlled Car Club. Controlled Car Track Mildura 3500

Mildura Rear Arts Mildura Cureton Avenue, Mildura Ballet and Dance Grind are based here. Centre – Studio Mildura 3500 Venue 1

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 43 Facility Name Suburb Street Address Description Master or Previous Plan Actions Recreation Plan Consultation

Mildura Rear Arts Mildura 12 Hynes Court, Mildura Ballet and Dance Grind are based here. Centre – Studio Mildura 3500 Venue 2

Mildura Recreation Mildura Twelfth Street, Mildura, The Mildura Harness Racing Club and Mildura Poultry Mildura Recreation Reserve Update Master Plan and Reserve 3500 and Pigeon Club are based here. It also has four Addition of new change facilities for netball and consider improved layout for outdoor netball courts, which are plexipave. junior football existing clubs, water access to The Imperial, Mildura and South Mildura Football Provide more netball courts grounds and consolidate Clubs are all based here while the Sunraysia Umpires Resurfacing playing surface inside harness track facilities where ever possible. Association is also based here for training. The Converting to raw water for irrigation Consider relocation of Harness Mildura East and the Gol Gol Workers Cricket Clubs Conversion of old kiosks under grandstand to Club to racecourse. also play Cricket here and the Sunraysia Cricket change facilities Umpires Association are also based here. There are Improve lighting and security throughout reserve two grass playing fields for Australian Rules football, Develop traffic plan and each field has a turf pitch for cricket. Old Aerodrome Sporting Complex There are three turf wicket cricket grounds all together Investigate acquisition of adjoining plot of land two inside the harness racing track. There is one fire for future recreation/sporting use track. Complete traffic review plan Review car-parking agreement. Keep the park as a broad-acre park with emphasis on participation over spectators.

Mildura Rowing Club Mildura 143 Hugh King Drive, Rowing club rooms and landing Mildura 3500 Mildura District Ski Mildura 2 Etiwanda Avenue, Conduct a range of water ski activities on the Club Mildura 3500 Murray and Darling Rivers

Mildura Melton V8 Mildura If the precinct was to go ahead they Jetboats would like to establish a jetboat course in the short term (1-5 years) Mildura Senior Mildura Deakin Avenue, Home to the Bambill Football Netball Club College Oval Mildura, 3500 One grass playing field for Australian Rules Football and two cricket pitches Mildura Showgrounds Mildura Twelfth Street, Mildura, Based at Mildura Recreation Reserve 3500 Mildura Skate Park Mildura Hugh King Drive, Mildura Skate Park is a professionally designed facility Mildura, 3500 for young BMX, skateboard and scooter users to enjoy.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 44 Facility Name Suburb Street Address Description Master or Previous Plan Actions Recreation Plan Consultation

Mildura Specialist Mildura 341-357 Deakin One playing field for Australian Rules Football, and School ground Avenue, Mildura, 3500 one cricket pitch

Off Leash Dog Park Mildura Hugh King Drive, Mildura’s Rio Vista Park located on Hugh King Drive (Rio Vista Park) Mildura, 3500 (between the Mildura Lawn Tennis Club and Lock 11) is set up as an Off Leash Dog Park. This is a designated area where pet owners can exercise their dogs without the need to keep them on a leash. Lisa Allan Personal Training held here. Old Aerodrome Mildura Eleventh Street, Home to Sunraysia Garden Club and the Sunraysia Complete Master Plan for Sporting Complex Mildura, 3500 Rugby League’s offices are based here. complex and address the It has one grass athletics track, home to Mildura and following: District Athletics Club and one dirt track which is Athletics: Improve irrigation home to the Mildura BMX Club. It also is home to the system on oval 8, consider Werrimull Football and Netball Club and Mildura West feasibility of a dedicated Cricket Club, two grass playing fields exist for athletics track. Australian Rules football while there are also two Upgrade kitchen as a priority. cricket pitches on each field, one of them synthetic BMX: Consider toilets and and the other turf. The Sunraysia Baseball Association change rooms, new start hill, also based here, and has four grass baseball pitches gate and timing system, track and is home to the Tornadoes, Wanderers, Eagles lighting and surface, access to and Hawks Baseball Clubs. irrigation water. The Sunraysia Hockey Association are also based Baseball: Improve lighting, here with one synthetic pitch and it is also home to storage facilities, pavilion KoowInda Hockey Club. The Sunraysia Softball location and toilets Association are located here and use four grass Soccer: Address lighting and Softball pitches. OASC has its own soccer park, provide. game standard where the administration offices of Football Federation lighting. Prioritise social facilities Sunraysia are located, and Mildura United Soccer and change rooms. Club also use these pitches. There are five grass Hockey: Consider a new hybrid pitches. Sixteen outdoor synthetic pitch tennis courts surface to replace existing and are also here. add a second pitch. Cricket: Consider lights for night competition and electronic scoreboard, improve shade. Football/Netball: Add netball court and female friendly change

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 45 Facility Name Suburb Street Address Description Master or Previous Plan Actions Recreation Plan Consultation

Olympic Park Mildura Winton Drive/River Home to Mildura Motorcycle Club, Mildura Clay Target Upgrade toilets to be Speedway Mildura Track, Mildura, 3500 Club. Managed by Mildura Motorcycle Club with a accessible. lease to 2050. Host numerous events and the Consider provision of shock Sunraysia Dirt Karters. Includes clubrooms to host curtains and traps events. Ontario Heights Mildura 31 Sherring Way, Ontario Heights Reserve is a large community park Reserve Mildura, 3500 offering local residents a playground and shaded barbecues, ideal for gatherings with friends and family. Ornamental Lakes Mildura Hugh King Drive, Ornamental Lakes Park is a community park along Park Mildura, 3500 the Mildura riverfront offering residents and visitors a playground, barbecues and public toilets ideal for gatherings with friends and family. Nowingi Place is where Mildura Nordic Walking gather. Park for Play Mildura Eleventh Street, Park for Play is a large fully enclosed community park Mildura, 3500 offering varied playground equipment, shaded barbecue areas and public toilets, ideal for a gatherings with friends and family. Ribarits Park Mildura 6 Ribarits Court, Ribarits Park is a community park providing a Mildura, 3500 playground for local residents and families. Rita Drive Reserve Mildura Rita Drive, Mildura, Rita Drive Reserve is a large community park offering 3500 local residents a playground and shaded barbecues, ideal for gatherings with friends and family. Riverfront Studio Mildura Hugh King Drive, Adjacent to Jaycee Park, where Mildura Arts Group Mildura, 3500 are based S.C Mills Reserve Mildura 250 Walnut Avenue, S.C Mills reserve is a large community park offering Mildura, 3500 local residents walking paths, outdoor gym equipment, shaded barbecue areas and public toilets on site. Semmens Park Mildura 4 Semmens Crescent, Semmens Park is a community park offering a Mildura, 3500 playground for local residents and families.

Sharland Park Mildura 196 Twelfth Street, Sharland Park is a community park offering a Mildura, 3500 playground for local residents and families. St. Andrews Hall Mildura 155 Deakin Avenue Home to Hotshots Performance Dance Team Mildura, 3500 Sun City Rollerama Mildura 55 The Crescent, Currently closed due to upgrades. Hosts Mildura Mildura, 3500 Roller Derby League

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 46 Facility Name Suburb Street Address Description Master or Previous Plan Actions Recreation Plan Consultation

Sunraysia Academy Mildura 101/101A Ninth Administration offices of AFL Victoria – Sunraysia and of Sport Avenue, Mildura, 3500 Sunraysia Baseball

Sunraysia Equestrian Mildura 66 Racecourse Road, Home to Mildura Alcheringa Pony Club and Mildura Centre Mildura, 3500 Sporting Complex

Sunraysia Tenpin Mildura 1 King Avenue, Mildura, 3500 Telfer Wetlands Mildura Albert Street, Mildura, Telfer Wetlands Reserve is a community park offering Reserve 3500 residents walking paths, a playground and barbecues, ideal for gatherings with friends and family. The Grange Park Mildura The Grange, Mildura, The Grange Park is a community park offering a 3500 playground for local residents and families. Timmis Speedway Mildura 3502 Deakin Avenue, Home to Mildura Speedway Drivers Club. Clay Mildura, 3500 surface track of 440m which hosts Sprint cars, Modified Sedans, Street Stocks, Junior Sedans, Late Models, Modlites, AMCAs, Wingless Sprints Tuohy Park Mildura 265 Wade Avenue, Tuohy Park is a community park offering a playground Mildura, 3500 and barbecue area for local residents and families. Walnut Park Mildura 16 Upland Drive, Walnut Park is a community park offering walking Mildura, 3500 paths, a playground and barbecue area for local residents and families. Washington Park Mildura 28A Washington Drive, Washington Park is a community park offering a Mildura, 3500 basketball court, playground and shaded barbecue area for local residents and families. Water Play Park Mildura Lot 1 Hugh King Drive Mildura’s Water Play Park is a free public facility Mildura, Mildura, 3500 designed for everyone to enjoy.

Windsor Park Mildura Windsor Street, Windsor Park is a small community park providing a Mildura, 3500 playground for local residents and families. Murrayville Murrayville Recreation Road, Home to Murrayville football and netball club, and has Assist Clubs to upgrade Recreation Reserve Murrayville, 3512 an oval for Australian Rules Football and cricket change rooms, function space (synthetic pitch), and two synthetic courts for and kitchen. basketball and netball/tennis. There are also seven Provide lighting to tennis courts outdoor tennis lawn courts present. Also has one grass bowling green and a nine hole golf course. Murrayville Swimming Murrayville Reed Street, Home to Murrayville Swimming Club. Has an outdoor Pool Murrayville, 3512 pool and a toddlers pool.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 47 Facility Name Suburb Street Address Description Master or Previous Plan Actions Recreation Plan Consultation

Pioneer Park Murrayville Gray Street, Pioneer Park is a community park offering Murrayville Murrayville, 3512 residents and visitors a playground and shaded barbecue area. Nangiloc Recreation Nangiloc Kulkyne Way, Nangiloc Reserve is a community reserve providing Nangiloc Recreation Reserve Update Master Plan to address Reserve Nangiloc, 3494 ball courts and ovals for a range of sports, as well as Completion of public hall (addition of toilets, Netball court - still on asphalt, a playground and public toilets on site. kitchen, community sporting facilities) provide female friendly Home to the Nangiloc and District Football and Sealing existing tennis courts to additionally changerooms to support netball Netball Club. There is One grass playing field for accommodate netball and football. Australian Rules Football with a concrete Cricket pitch Upgrade the oval and one asphalt Netball court. One grass bowling Sealing of road services incl. car park and road green and four outdoor Tennis courts and a 2 pitch connecting hall and bowls club cricket net facility. Creation of pedestrian only precinct incl. playground upgrade.

Nichols Point Primary Nichols 110 Koorlong Avenue, Gymnasium is used for Taekwondo, and there are 2 School Point Nichols Point, 3501 basketball/netball courts

Nichols Point Reserve Nichols Fifth Street and Nichols Point Reserve is a community reserve offering Nichols Point Recreation Reserve: Complete Master Plan for Point Koorlong Avenue, a sports oval and playground for local residents and New pavilion to cater for cricket, rugby and Reserve and confirm location of Nichols Point, 3501 families. soccer fields, buildings and parking There is one grass playing field for Soccer and both Realignment and upgrade of the oval, including and prioritise the upgrade of all Rugby codes. provision of lighting facilities, include female friendly Mildura City Tigers and Mildura Warriors are based Upgrade of the hall and reinstatement of public facilities, lighting, social areas, here, while Nichols Point Soccer Club are also based use ground layout. here. There is also one turf Cricket pitch and a 4 net Creation of pedestrian only precinct and new cricket training facility which is home to the Nichols playground Point Cricket Club. Additional greening of precinct. Mildura Racecourse Nichols Racecourse Road, Mildura Racecourse has a track circumference of Point Nichols Point, 3501 1765 metres and a home straight being 390 metres long. It host 9 race meetings per year.

Riverside Golf Club - Nichols Park Lane, 18 hole golf course with four lawn tennis courts. • Golf club Point Nichols Point, 3501

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 48 Facility Name Suburb Street Address Description Master or Previous Plan Actions Recreation Plan Consultation

Blackburn Park Ouyen Farrell Street, Ouyen, Blackburn Park is a large community reserve Address pedestrian issues at Farrell St entry to Update Master Plan and 3490 providing ball courts and ovals for a range of sports, a the recreation reserve address netball courts, lighting, playground and skate park for young people to enjoy, Extend netball courts to comply with Netball VIC shelter and change rooms. and public toilets on site. There is two grass playing guidelines Consider larger and improved field for Australian Rules with a turf pitch for Cricket New toilets proposed to serve the netball, skate clubrooms to meet current club and two plexi pave Netball courts. Home to Ouyen park and picnic precincts and community needs. Football and Netball Club and Cricket Club BMX track upgrade pending demand analysis Address basketball courts and Extension of football club pavilion due to age – make bird proof. addition of spectator area, addition of access for Provide community support for disabled parking and emergency services grant writing and funding Other: Project to develop 24 hour community applications to address items in gym to be used as community fitness hub Master Plan.

Ferguson Park Ouyen 29 Ritchie Street, Ferguson Park is a community park offering a Ouyen, 3490 playground for local residents and families. Jardine Park Ouyen Scott Street, Ouyen, Jardine Park is a community park offering a 3490 playground for Ouyen residents and families. Ouyen Bowling Club Ouyen 9 Farrell Street, Ouyen, Two outdoor grass bowling green Note: Community Plan proposes to replace Plan for new synthetic green to 3490 bowling green with synthetic surface. replace turf green

Ouyen Community Ouyen 14 Matheson Street, Home to Ouyen Gymnastics Club and Ouyen Junior Centre Ouyen, 3490 Basketball- one timber gymnasium court is here.

Ouyen Golf Club Ouyen Dakers Street, Ouyen, One public eighteen hole golf course. (8 lawn tennis Community Plan recommends: Consider feasibility of providing 3490 courts – may no longer be in use) Upgrade proposed to golf club accessibility irrigation to golf course features and change rooms, exterior veranda, building and amenities upgrade Plan to resurface existing grass surface with synthetic at the tennis club. Proposed upgrade to irrigation on the golf course

Ouyen Lake Ouyen North West Road, Complete Trails Plan for LGA Ouyen, 3490 that includes extensions to Ouyen Lake trail. Consider establishing additional facilities at Lake to service community.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 49 Facility Name Suburb Street Address Description Master or Previous Plan Actions Recreation Plan Consultation

Ouyen Lawn Tennis Ouyen Dakers Street, Ouyen, Has eight grass outdoor Tennis courts and two Club 3490 synthetic tennis courts

Ouyen Motorcycle On private land Support the club to continue Club track improvements.

Ouyen P-12 College Ouyen 1 Fuller Street, Ouyen, School has 1 football/cricket oval with a synthetic 3940 pitch and one netball court.

Ouyen Senior Ouyen Cooper Street, Ouyen, Citizens 3490

Ouyen Swimming Ouyen Gregory Street, The Ouyen Swimming Pool is open to the community Pool Ouyen, 3490 between November and March. Has one 30 metre outdoor pool, and a toddlers pool. Ouyen Youth Park Ouyen Farrell Street (Calder Ouyen Youth Park is a professionally designed facility Highway), Ouyen, for young BMX, skateboard and scooter uses to 3490 enjoy. Barclay Square Red Cliffs Jacaranda Street, Red Barclay Square is a community park in the heart of Cliffs, 3496 Red Cliffs, offering shady trees and a playground for residents and visitors. Mallee Sunset Field Red Cliffs Red Cliffs-Meringur Mallee Sunset Field Archers Archers Road, Red Cliffs 3496

Nicholls Estate Park Red Cliffs 6 Nicholls Court, Red Nicholls Estate is a community park offering a Cliffs, 3496 playground for residents and families. Ovens Avenue Park Red Cliffs Ovens Avenue, Red Ovens Avenue Park is a community park providing a Cliffs, 3496 playground for Red Cliffs residents and families.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 50 Facility Name Suburb Street Address Description Master or Previous Plan Actions Recreation Plan Consultation

Quandong Park Red Cliffs Erskine Avenue, Red Quandong Park is a large community reserve Quandong Park: Ensure park caters to sporting Update Master Plan in Cliffs, 3496 providing ball courts and ovals for a range of sports, a and recreation needs of the community. conjunction with user groups playground, skate park and public toilets for Red Cliffs Improved provision for netball and baseball. and address storage facilities, residents and visitors. Upgrade playing surfaces. toilets, cricket training nets. There are two grass playing fields for Australian Rules Upgrade toilet facilities.Provide lights to all- Football, which have 3 synthetic pitches across both weather tennis courts, Power Cor issues. field, while one has a turf pitch. Home to the Fire Create family friendly environments/facilities that Brigade Cricket Club, Millwella Cricket Club, Nursery cater to multiple age groups – play areas, skate Ridge Cricket Club, South West Cricket Club and the park. Red Cliffs Football and Netball Club.It is also home to Greening of the park + upgrade pedestrian and the Red Cliffs Football and Netball Club and the Red vehicle accessways. Cliffs Star Sprits Netball Club. There are three Netball courts which are asphalt plexipave. The Red Cliffs Croquet Club is also located here, where it has two grass playing fields. There are 2 bowls greens and one fire track. Also home to the Red Cliffs District Kennel Club. There is one grass playing baseball pitch fifteen outdoor grass tennis courts. Red Cliffs Golf Club Red Cliffs Corner of 22nd Street One eighteen hole golf course and Coorong Avenue, Red Cliffs, 3496 Red Cliffs Lawn Red Cliffs Corner Calder Home to Red Cliffs Lawn Tennis Club Tennis Court Highway and Erskine Avenue, Red Cliffs, 3496 Red Cliffs Skate Park Red Cliffs Erskine Avenue, Red Red Cliffs Skate Park is a professionally designed Cliffs, 3496 facility for young BMX, skateboard and scooter uses to enjoy. Red Cliffs Swimming Red Cliffs Heytesbury Avenue, Red Cliffs Swimming Pool is open to the community Community Plan recommends: Pool Reserve Red Cliffs, 3498 between November and March. Red Cliffs Swimming Plan to improve facilities at the pool – water Club splash area, seating, shade, BBQ facilities Plan to provide indoor and outdoor gym facilities

Simon Court Reserve Red Cliffs Simon Court, Red Simon Court Reserve is a community park offering a Cliffs, 3496 playground for local residents and families. Torrita Recreation Torrita 365 Nyang South Torrita Recreation Reserve has one grass Australian Reserve Road, Torrita, 3490 Rules Football field, one synthetic Cricket pitch and one hard court tennis court.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 51 Facility Name Suburb Street Address Description Master or Previous Plan Actions Recreation Plan Consultation

Outen Park Underbool 21 Monash Avenue, Outen Park is a community park providing a Underbool, 3509 playground and shaded barbecue area for Underbool residents and families. Underbool Bowling Underbool Reservoir Road, One grass bowls pitch Club Underbool, 3509

Underbool Golf Club Underbool Monash Avenue, Nine hole golf course, open to the public. Underbool, 3509 Underbool Recreation Underbool Reservoir Road, Underbool Recreation Reserve has one grass Underbool Recreation Reserve: Upgrade fencing and lighting in Reserve Underbool, 3509 Australian Rules Football field, one synthetic cricket Resurface tennis/netball courts and court the short term pitch, two plexipave netball courts and six outdoor surrounds. Provide appropriate netball change Upgrade the change rooms to concrete plexipave tennis courts. The Underbool facilities. Install lights on tennis/netball courts accommodate female umpires Tennis and Cricket Clubs are based here. Provide a playground in football and male umpires. Ouyen Football and Netball Club have also been Seal roadways (entry, entry road, main carpark) based here since 2016. Add shade structure/sails and revegetate Underbool Senior Underbool Malkin Avenue, Citizens Club Underbool, 3509

Underbool Swimming Underbool Malkin Avenue, The Underbool Swimming Pool is opening to the Community Plan recommends: Pool Underbool, 3509 community between November and March. Proposed slide or water feature at pool.

Walpeup Golf Club - Walpeup Hopetown Walpeup Home to the Walpeup Golf Club. Has one 18 hole Golf Road, Walpeup, 3507 public golf course. It also has four outdoor Tennis courts. Walpeup Recreation Walpeup Meridian Road, Has one grass Australian Rules football oval and one Walpeup Recreation Reserve Reserve – Australian Walpeup, 3507 synthetic cricket pitch Pavilion upgrade (weather-proof, kitchen Rules Football and upgrade, bar and kitchen/bar storage upgrade, Cricket internal and external storage facilities fit out) Upgrade play facilities/establish pedestrian only zone. Terrace social/spectator area east of pavilion. Vegetation planning for dust and erosion management. Rectifying drainage and rainwater run off onto tennis courts.

Walpeup Wayside Walpeup Cregan Street, Walpeup Wayside Stop is a community park providing Stop Walpeup, 3507 a playground and shaded barbecue area for residents and visitors.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 52 4. Review Of Peak Sporting Bodies Plans Sport Membership/Participation Key Issues/opportunities/actions by state facilities plans

Netball 1577 registered members in It was identified in the Netball Victoria state-wide facilities strategy that there is an undersupply of netball courts in the MRCC 2015 It is anticipated that netball will increase participation numbers by 8225 from 2015-2031.

Basketball 1608 according to facility From the 2012 masterplan, shortfalls for courts were identified in Mildura masterplan Mildura Basketball Association membership figures were stable; however Irymple and Ouyen have reduced. There are eleven courts in the municipality: Four at Mildura Basketball Stadium (350 show court seats) Three at Irymple’s Bendigo Bank Centre (1500 show court seats) Three at Red Cliffs Secondary College One at Ouyen Secondary College

Much of the current infrastructure is ageing and doesn’t quite fully comply with basketball requirements. The current facilities do not reflect Mildura’s role as a regional centre/sub centre for the north west. In recognition of the projected growth in demand MRC have included the Mildura South Regional Sports Complex with 4000m2 of a multipurpose space in the Precincts Structure Plan, designed in 2014. Mildura Basketball Association were given advice to consider relocating its back to the facility if it proceeds however no funding has been allocated to the project to date.

Football – Soccer 691 according to Football See the Old Aerodrome Sporting Complex as a potential site for redevelopment Victoria Facilities Plan, Four soccer pitches in Mildura will be needed to meet demand 2017. Participation is predicted to go to 858-1146 by 2026 Develop at least one venue in each Loddon Mallee municipality, preferably at a school, that can cater for football for all levels of the game. An estimated additional 4 full sized soccer pitches are also desirable

BMX 236 registered members – Old Aerodrome BMX Track has public toilets (both male and female but have no changerooms for BMX track users. Loddon Valley In 2014, the Loddon Mallee region had 236 registered members.

Croquet N/A in any plan Participation rates are as low as 0.05% in Mildura Mildura and Red Cliffs have an adequate capacity for courts

Cycling 584 registered members in Majority of forecast population growth will come in the Mildura LGA the Loddon Valley in 2014, Old Aerodrome BMX Track has public toilets (both male and female but have no changerooms for their users. 532 MTB members in the Victorian demographics show that cycling from 2016-26 is expected to increase from 57,936 to 62,493. There is expected to be huge growth for Loddon Valley. the 25-34 year old, 55-64 year old and 65+ year old age ranges. There is also expected to be a decrease in participants for 15-24 year olds, and 45-54 year olds. There are large gaps in cycling routes in the Loddon Mallee region. In 2014, Loddon Mallee had 584 registered cycling Victoria members and 532 MTB members.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 53 Sport Membership/Participation Key Issues/opportunities/actions by state facilities plans

Hockey 2014 registered members Renew and convert the existing pitch at the Old Aerodrome Sporting Complex to a synthetic hybrid Surface is a priority between 2015-25. Mildura Wanderers: 112 It is Mildura’s only hockey facility. Koowinda: 95 In 2013, Mildura along with Albury/Wodonga, Hamilton and Warrnambool made up approximately 20% of registered members in regional Victoria. Waratahs: 104 Rivaside: 85 Hookin2hockey Sunraysia: 55

Lacrosse N/A in any plan Lacrosse Victoria seek to develop a lacrosse presence in at least five of Victoria’s regional cities which include Mildura.

Squash/racquetball N/A in any plan Growth in participation is expected to rise by 2026 Target squash facility development and redevelopment or inclusion in existing or new indoor recreation centres within identified regional squash and racquetball growth areas The most prevalent gaps in membership appear in the states North West regions which are also the regions with the fewest number of squash/ racquetball facilities.

Volleyball N/A in any plan A business case supports a proposed Mildura South Regional Sporting Precinct that will feature six multi-sport sports and could serve the Mallee Region.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 54 Sport Membership/Participation Key Issues/opportunities/actions by state facilities plans

Cricket 709 registered members in According to Cricket Victoria’s infrastructure plan in 2018, demand for additional facilities and investments in facility upgraded across the region 2017 according to will occur most likely in Mildura. infrastructure plan Key facility findings: A small percentage of sites across the Loddon Mallee region provides adequate off field facilities and amenities for females Overall condition rating of pavilion social spaces, player and umpire amenities is significantly below the Country Regional average. Only two thirds of sites across the Loddon Mallee region currently provides training net facilities. Only 16 of 49 cricket fields across the Loddon Mallee provide synthetic pitches, the average rating for them being 40%.

Strategic responses include: Deliver and activate a regional level Cricket and Community Centre to extend cricket service provision across the Region. Increase the provision of unisex change room areas, supporting amenities and more inclusive social spaces. Utilise facility and participation data to develop prioritised pavilion upgrade and renewal plans. Utilise facility and participation data to identify those ‘Community Club Home’ cricket grounds without training nets and develop training net facilities in consultation with clubs. Utilise facility and participation data to develop prioritised upgrade and renewal plans for synthetic cricket pitches. Capitalise on the Region’s strong turf cricket pitch provision by advocating for the hosting of competitions, events and programs. In areas of forecast population decline, prioritise facility renewal and upgrade projects to ensure future club and facility sustainability.

‘BIG 6’ infrastructure priorities Deliver and activate a regional level Cricket and Community Centre Increase provision of inclusive facilities with a focus on female friendly design Improve pavilion and change room facilities and supporting amenities Increase training net provision levels for 'Community Club Home' venues Promote high level of turf pitch provision across the Region Improve condition of synthetic cricket pitches

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 55 5. National And State Plans-Key Points Sport 2030 The Australian Government’s National Sport Plan

The national plan for sport and physical activity: Sport 2030 recognises the personal, social and economic benefits of sport.

The vision is: “Australia is the world’s most active and sporting nation known for its integrity and excellence”. The plan has four strategic priorities: • Building a more active Australia • Achieving sporting excellence • Safeguarding the integrity of sport, and • Strengthening Australia’s sport industry.

The plan is to be delivered in partnership with Australia's sporting, physical activity, technology, education and corporate community use.

Key directions of this plan include: i. Facilitate a strategic approach to the provision of sporting and active recreation Infrastructure. ii. Establish local management and access policies to sport and recreation facilities. iii. Support and partner with non-government organisations that enable sport and active recreation participation. iv. Collaborate, engage, and partner across government departments on shared policy agendas. v. Invest in sport and active recreation infrastructure.

Smart Cities Plan 2016

The Australian Government Smart Cities Plan identifies that to succeed in the 21st Century economy our cities need to be productive and accessible, but they also need to be liveable with a clear focus on serving their citizens.

The idea is to plan for cities where residents can access employment, schools, shopping, services and recreational facilities within 30 minutes of home. This should the distribution of facilities in urban areas but also ensure remote communities have access to essential facilities.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 56 Infrastructure Victoria, Infrastructure Plan for Victoria 2016

The Australian Government Smart Cities Plan identifies that to succeed in the 21st Century economy our cities need to be productive and accessible. Three key objectives are reinforced in this project: • Prepare for population change • Foster healthy, safe and inclusive communities • Protect and enhance natural environments

Five key needs are identified that support this strategy: • Address infrastructure demands in areas with high population growth • Enable physical activity and participation • Provide spaces where communities can come together • Help preserve natural environments and minimise biodiversity loss • Improve the health of waterways and coastal areas

This strategy aligns with the objectives of this plan.

Victorian Memorandum for Health and Nature, 3rd April 2017

There is now rapidly growing awareness that a thriving natural environment not only conserves biological diversity but also sustains the health and wellbeing of people and communities through encouraging healthy lifestyles. Our parks and other open spaces provide critical settings that enhance our wellbeing and liveability by providing places for physical exercise, relaxation, play, learning and discovery. We know that being in nature enriches our minds and bodies, making us feel energised and alive.

Active Victoria Strategic Framework 2017

The Framework identifies that sport and active recreation creates economic growth and jobs, makes Victorians healthier, builds community cohesion, and contributes to our liveability. It describes a strategic framework for future work based on six key directions: i. Meeting demand ii. Broader and more inclusive participation iii. Additional focus on active recreation iv. Build system resilience and capacity

The vision in the plan is to be: i. More active. ii. More diverse and inclusive. iii. Collaborative: Well-planned and connected investment that maximises participation and health, economic, community, and liveability benefits. iv. Robust, flexible, sustainable, and affordable. v. Broad-based and connected: An integrated system that maximises the pathways and connections across the system. vi. Identify planning, policy and economic, social and health issues facing the LGA

This Plan is the primary mechanism through which Victorians will continue to enjoy the highest attainable standards of health, wellbeing and participation at every age.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 57 Active Victoria Strategic Framework 2017

The Plan addresses a number of strategic health priorities including active living and maintaining healthy environments. Strategic actions include: • Increase the proportion of transport trips that use active modes of travel. • Increase easy access to parks, open spaces and public spaces with opportunities for physical activity where appropriate. • Integrate healthy lifestyle counselling and referrals within routine health care services.

This Plan is the primary mechanism through which Victorians will continue to enjoy the highest attainable standards of health, wellbeing and participation at every age. The Plan addresses a number of strategic health priorities including active living and maintaining healthy environments. Strategic actions include: • Increase the proportion of transport trips that use active modes of travel. • Increase easy access to parks, open spaces and public spaces with opportunities for physical activity where appropriate. • Integrate healthy lifestyle counselling and referrals within routine health care services. Council supports the priorities at the local level, through the municipal public health and wellbeing plan.

Safe and Strong - A Victorian Gender Equality Policy 2016

Safe and Strong, Victoria's Gender Equality Strategy, sets out a framework for enduring and sustained action over time to progressively build the attitudinal and behavioural change required to reduce violence against women and deliver gender equality. The Strategy considers six settings for state-wide action in which strategic alliances and partnerships will enable shared progress towards gender equality. One of these is sports and recreation.

Early actions in sport include: • Work with State Sporting Associations and other appropriate partners to pilot gender equality and prevention of family violence education in grassroots sporting clubs, using sporting ambassadors. • Work with local government and State Sporting Associations to promote equitable treatment of men and women in the provision of and access to infrastructure and facilities. • Include consideration of expenditure on sport and sporting infrastructure, including in educational facilities, as part of the introduction of gender impact analysis.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 58 6. Trail Related Actions Recommended By The Community Locality Suggested action required

Colignan • Repair pram/wheelchair access along river from Yelta to Colignan • Extend cycling/walking trails along river from Yelta to Colignan • Many more mountain bike trails of varying intensity along the river and river region that connect provide a recognised link from Curlwaa Bridge to Mildura to Red Cliffs to Colignan to Wemen that interconnect camping regions

Irymple • More paths, particularly around the Irymple area • Mountain Bike trails required in Irymple • Dog exercise spaces required in Irymple • Purpose built mountain bike/pump track next to Irymple Kindergarten in stormwater basin • More paths, particularly around the Irymple area • Help us design, build, fund and maintain mountain bike tracks in localities like Red Cliffs, Merbein, Irymple, Nichols Point and have them all linked together

Merbein • The trails and walks at Merbein need a lot of work to get them back to where they were • Help us design, build, fund and maintain mountain bike tracks in localities like Red Cliffs, Merbein, Irymple, Nichols Point and have them all linked together • A number of comments were made about the damage to the trails at Merbein that has caused injury • Extend trail both east of Chaffey bridge and west of Merbein • Safer trails along the river from Mildura to Merbein • Mountain Bike Trail required – especially a dedicated single trail track – river reserves Merbein common • Dog exercise spaces required in Merbein • Allowance of racing at Merbein and other bike tracks the club is growing hugely in numbers each year and the tracks are used by so many people if it was advertised better it would bring many more people to ride • Mad Mike at Merbein - unfortunately, a negative impact on mountain biking. It is the closest and easiest accessible place for mountain bikers to practice. Blocking existing tracks and making it unsafe. Would be much better to work with mountain bike community trails for everyone while protecting the local environment in that area. • The trails, walks at Merbein need a lot of work to get them back to where they were • Coomealla-Mildura Mountain Bike Club would love the opportunity to work with MTCC to develop and maintain trails in this area and other areas within the MRCC. • Off-road shared trail for walking, cycling and skating required in Merbein.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 59 Locality Suggested action required

Mildura • A connected off-road and challenging trail from Mildura to Red Cliffs would encourage me to ride to work more often • Also work with Coomealla Mildura Mountainless Bike Club to develop purpose-built MTB trails with the municipality • More tracks closer to Mildura and Red Cliffs • Safer trails along the river from Mildura to Merbein • Many more mountain bike trails of varying intensity along the river and river region that connect provide a recognised link from Curlwaa Bridge to Mildura to Red Cliffs • More toilet facilities along the river walks between Mildura and Wentworth • Mountain Bike trail required in Mildura – especially right throughout the city • Dog exercise space required in Mildurs – also in the South and West • Upgrade Rio Vista trails, remove old amphitheatre, repair pram/wheelchair access • Off-road shared trail required throughout Mildura City • Off-road shared trail for walking cycling and skating required in 15th/16th Street area • Many more mountain bike trails of varying intensity along the river and river region that connect provide a recognised link from Curlwaa Bridge to Mildura to Red Cliffs to Colignan to Wemen that interconnect camping regions.

Murrayville • Help with Murrayville new walking trails. • Hopefully we get the Murrayville Wetlands up and running and there will be lots of beautiful walks around it, Council water aerobics on Wednesdays, MRCC supporting ParkRun. • Walking trail at Murrayville – young mums programs seen as a barrier.

Nangiloc • Trails to Nangiloc would be great.

Nichols Point • Mountain Bike Trails are required in Nichols Point.

Ouyen • Mountain Bike Trails are required in Ouyen. • Off road shared trail required in Ouyen area and Mallee track • The Ouyen Lake is a great initiative and I know locals love the new space and it has had an effect on their tourism also as we stop there more often than we used to and usually buy food etc there too now. I see lots of locals walking around and making use of the area which would also be good for their physical and mental health.

Red Cliffs • A connected off-road and challenging trail from Mildura to Red Cliffs would encourage me to ride to work more often • More tracks closer to Mildura and Red Cliffs • Extend walking and riding trails from Red Cliffs through to Yelta • Mountain Bike Trails required- Curlwaa to Red Cliffs • Dog exercise space required in Red Cliffs • Off leash space required for Red Cliffs • Help us design, build, fund and maintain mountain bike tracks in localities like Red Cliffs, Merbein, Irymple, Nichols Point and have them all linked together. • Many more mountain bike trails of varying intensity along the river and river region that connect provide a recognised link from Curlwaa Bridge to Mildura to Red Cliffs to Colignan to Wemen that interconnect camping regions

Underbool • Off-road shared trail for walking, cycling and skating required in Underbool

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 60 Locality Suggested action required

Yelta • Repair pram/wheelchair access along river from Yelta to Colignan • Extend cycling/walking trails along river from Yelta to Colignan • Mountain Bike Trails required in Yelta • Extend walking and riding trails from Red Cliffs through to Yelta.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 61 7. Potential Participation For 2026 And 2036 Projected From State Average Participation Rates And Existing Memberships Projected 2019 Projected 2026 Projected 2036

State Average - Peak Body Club Membership State Average Peak Body Club State Average Peak Body Club Organised Membership 2026 Membership Membership 2036 Membership Membership 2026 2026 2036 2036

Air sports 214 NK NK 215 0 0 213 0 0

Archery 41 NK NK 44 0 0 48 0 0

Athletics 680 212 201 701 227 215 718 243 230

Australian Rules Football 2,989 2550 1605 3,123 2,733 1720 3,246 2,918 1837

Badminton 337 NK NK 364 0 0 393 0 0

Baseball 188 272 147 198 292 158 207 311 168

Basketball 2,933 1272 NK 3,080 1,363 0 3,219 1,456 0

Boxing 458 NK NK 498 0 0 539 0 0

Calisthenics 35 NK NK 38 0 0 41 0 0

Canoeing/kayaking 72 NK NK 79 0 0 85 0 0

Cricket (indoor) 21 NK NK 21 0 0 21 0 0

Cricket (outdoor) 1,734 2790 776 1,832 2,990 832 1,927 3,193 888

Croquet 48 0 0 53 0 0 57 0 0

Cycling (road) 512 584 65 555 626 0 600 668 0

Cycling BMX 16 226 226 17 242 118 19 259 126

Cycling MTB 82 532 110 90 570 0 98 609 0

Dancing 1,899 NK NK 1,960 0 0 2,010 0 0

Fishing 57 NK NK 62 0 0 68 0 0

Flying disk 41 0 0 44 0 0 48 0 0

Golf 2,106 NK NK 2,290 0 0 2,480 0 0

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 62 Projected 2019 Projected 2026 Projected 2036

State Average - Peak Body Club Membership State Average Peak Body Club State Average Peak Body Club Organised Membership 2026 Membership Membership 2036 Membership Membership 2026 2026 2036 2036

Gym /fitness 13,305 NK NK 14,512 0 0 15,775 0 0

Gymnastics 1,389 NK NK 1,399 0 0 1,396 0 0

Hockey (outdoor) 534 477 399 566 511 428 597 546 457

Equestrian 294 23 0 309 25 0 324 26 0

Lacrosse 8 0 0 9 0 0 9 0 0

Lawn bowls 660 516 516 720 553 553 783 591 591

Martial arts 1,167 0 0 1,206 0 0 1,240 0 0

Motor sports 93 NK 1470* 98 0 1576* 103 0 1682* *Sourced from Business Case for the Mildura Sports and Community Precinct

Netball (indoor) 911 822 469 956 881 503 999 941 537

Netball (outdoor) 911 821 469 956 880 503 999 940 537

Orienteering/ Rogaining 20 0 0 22 0 0 23 0 0

Other aquatic sports 0 NK NK 0 0 0 0 0 0

Roller sports (roller derby, inline racing) 16 NK NK 16 0 0 16 0 0

Rowing 170 0 0 182 0 0 195 0 0

Rugby League 779 303 0 809 325 0 834 347 0

Rugby Union 494 0 0 517 0 0 538 0 0

Running (parkrun etc.,) NK NK 0 0 0 0 0 0

Sailing 209 NK NK 225 0 0 241 0 0

Shooting sports 540 992 100 537 1,063 107 526 1,135 114

Skateboarding, roller blading & riding a 5,774 0 0 5,736 0 0 5,625 0 0 scooter

Soccer/football (outdoor) 2,199 787 310 2,289 843 332 2,370 901 355

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 63 Projected 2019 Projected 2026 Projected 2036

State Average - Peak Body Club Membership State Average Peak Body Club State Average Peak Body Club Organised Membership 2026 Membership Membership 2036 Membership Membership 2026 2026 2036 2036

Soccer/futsal (indoor) 181 0 0 180 0 0 176 0 0

Softball and tee ball 229 0 0 238 0 0 245 0 0

Squash and racquetball 332 NK NK 359 0 0 387 0 0

Swimming and diving 8,189 232 150 8,519 249 161 8,812 266 172

Table tennis 157 96 96 171 103 103 186 110 110

Tennis 2,254 816 2,383 875 0 2,507 934 0

Tenpin bowling 98 115 0 106 123 0 114 132 0

Touch football 841 0 0 898 0 0 956 0 0

Triathlon 123 0 0 134 0 0 146 0 0

Volleyball 463 71 0 498 76 0 535 81 0

Walking (bush) 350 0 0 382 0 0 416 0 0

Walking (other) 1,121 0 0 1,223 0 0 1,329 0 0

Water polo 89 0 0 93 0 0 97 0 0

Wheel chair sports (rugby , boccia, softball, 4 0 0 4 0 0 5 0 0 afl, soccer, power hockey)

Wrestling 9 0 0 10 0 0 11 0 0

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 64 8. Benchmarking

Councils of a similar size were benchmarked for issues, vision and principles, hierarchy of facilities, and any other relative matter such as prioritising capital works. Key Councils selected had populations between 50,000 – 60,000. The Councils benchmarked were largely regional Councils with multiple small localities, and those that also have a strong focus around a River.

1. Wagga 2. Clarence Valley

Vision Hierarchy of facilities “In 2040 Wagga Wagga will be a thriving, innovative, connected and inclusive Local, District, Regional and LGA community on the Murrumbidgee. Rich in opportunity, choice, learning and environment, Wagga Wagga is a place where paths cross and people meet.” Key issues Strong acknowledgement of country. • Sports field capacity improvement All of community approach is needed to deliver the Strategy. • Aquatic facilities • Sport precinct master plans Priority areas • Rectangular sports stadium • Increasing the activation of public spaces • River sport development • Improving accessibility and connection • Future land needs • Improving existing assets to maximise utilisation • Improving community health • Collaborate where possible

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 65 Recommendations In the short term it is recommended that Council and the river based sports Priority Area Hierarchy consider the preparation of a River Sports and Major Events Strategy. This 1. Implementation of S.94 Plans for Infrastructure should seek to: a) Based on Schedule or Population Threshold b) Urgent Acquisitions (or opportunistic and money saving) • Identify major event precincts on the river to be developed for specific sports and events. c) Design and master planning of acquired sites within 2 years of d) scheduled demand threshold. • Determine what existing events could be located in the area and what potential new events can be e) Development of sites within 4 years of scheduled demand threshold • established. 2. Minimum levels of service. • Develop linkages to tourism and economic development strategies a) Safety and essential maintenance/repair of existing assets/Compliance • Build on current interest from Queensland based paddle and river sports with legislation • Develop a 5 year plan for the development of critical access facilities and support infrastructure b) High needs area currently lacking any facility c) Upgrading/developing existing facilities to meet minimum standards • Prioritise expenditure according to: - Sport and Recreation Management Policy which defines the role of d) High need for redevelopment to meet changed community needs Council: e) Upgrades or redevelopments which will reduce ongoing maintenance - Implementation of S 94 plans (development contribution plans) costs - Ensuring a minimum level of opportunity for all residents according to: - Desired Standard of Service for Sport and Recreation facilities 3. Partnership Projects - Maintaining Assets and Public Safety a) Projects that help meet minimum standards - Value for Money b) Capital Projects for new or upgraded facilities which will be more The Plan includes: sustainable through supporting the partnership. c) Offering 50% or greater capital saving or Projects which offer significant • Desired standards of service for sporting facilities and savings on original estimates and are overdue for implementation • Provision within local towns and villages d) Provide a reduced recurrent cost or increase shared use of resources Priority assessment for expenditure e) Implementation of Master Plans and Strategic Plans The following is a possible framework approach for prioritising expenditure on f) Projects which have a significant economic benefit and will provide sport and recreation facilities. Priorities should be determined in accordance with additional sport and recreation opportunities for residents the following prioritised areas and individual hierarchies.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 66 3. Cessnock

Vision External funding models A diverse and enticing network of accessible and inclusive recreation and open • Service review - will examine each service provided by Council for space areas that integrate with the built and natural environment and provide for whether it should be provided, to what standard and how it can be done the active and passive recreational needs of the community and the regional most efficiently. community now and into the future. • Sponsorship and subsidies review - will improve equity and governance around all donations and sponsorships. Strategic objectives • Strategic property review - will result in under-used assets being This vision is underpinned by four strategic objectives that will be used to guide converted into revenue-generating assets Council’s planning and operations to achieve the vision: • Fees and charges review - will develop a consistent, robust and 1. Create a recreation and open space network that is connected and equitable method for pricing services. accessible. • Developer contributions review - will assess current contributions plans 2. Provide recreation and open space facilities that are well utilised and and the general framework to ensure equitable apportionment is applied inclusive. to infrastructure costs. 3. Maximise the social, economic and environmental benefits derived from Issues and recommendations recreation and open space areas. 4. Take a leading role in the governance, leadership and advocacy of recreation Issues and recommendations are based on low medium and high cost/benefit. and open space facilities and services. Catchment hierarchy Local, District and Regional. Each has different catchment thresholds: 500m, 5km and 15km.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 67 4. Nillumbik Targets Key Themes • Retain leisure participation rates across the Shire at 85 per cent or • Theme One: Nillumbik residents have high recreation participation rates higher. when compared to state and national averages. • Increase junior and female participation in sport and recreation activities • Theme Two: Opportunities to increase participation in healthy and active by 10 per cent. lifestyles should be supported. • Ensure facilities are maintained at the agreed service levels and are fit for • Theme Three: Future funding and development should prioritise use. unstructured activities. • Increase communication with recreation and sporting clubs with a 75 • Theme Four: Resource distribution will focus on improving equity across per cent satisfaction rating. all sectors of the community. • Improved sustainability of facilities including reduced water and energy • Theme Five: Effective communication is required between Council and use. recreation clubs and organisations. • Increased funding to support participation in and development of • Theme Six: Improved management, occupancy arrangements and unstructured activities. effective programming will support increased access to facilities. • Theme Seven: Enhanced equity and consistency in fees and charges will improve the sustainability of facilities. • Theme Eight: Changes to services and programs to assist ‘time poor’ residents to increase participation levels.

Strategic directions 1. High Participation 2. Increased Participation 3. Unstructured Activities 4. Equity in Resource Distribution 5. Effective Communication 6. Increased Access to Facilities 7. Equity in Fees and Charges 8. Time Poor

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 68 Summary of Financial Review Nillumbik Leisure Services Catchment Hierarchy 2009/2010 Council to adopt the standardised facility categorisation system that coordinates and directs the differing levels, sizes, capacity, maintenance and needs of Income $8,246,546 sporting facilities within the Shire. Expenditure $10,649,109 The proposed categories should include: • Regional Net cost ($2,202,563) • Municipal Estimated Population (ABS 2006) $60,623 • District Local Revenue per user $136 •

Expenditure per resident $175 Recommendations Facility Funding Contribution Schedule and a Leisure Facilities Grants Priority Net contribution per user per annum $36 Criteria Rating System to assess capital works. Revenue as a % of Expenditure 77%

Principles Principle 1 – Partnerships Principle 2 – Community Engagement Principle 3 – Infrastructure Renewal/Development Principle 4 – Equity Principle 5 – Community Strengthening Principle 6 – Participation Principle 7 – Sustainability Principle 8 – Technology Principle 9 – Changing Social Conditions Principle 10 – Review and Consultation

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 69 5. Latrobe City Prioritising capital works Key objectives • Extensive policy and guidelines provided. • Provide a diversity of financially sustainable • Criteria Past and current participation average increase/decrease over recreation and leisure facilities and opportunities • the past three years • Provide and promote well used and relevant recreation facilities and • Current compliancy issue with the facility: settings • Will the project encourage the development of a multi-use facility? • Consolidate recreation and sports facility provision and use • Has the Club worked with GippSport to develop strategic plans and Encourage and support community involvement in sustainable facility • documentation? management and development • Clubs making a cash contribution to core components only • Maximise opportunities for economic development through recreation • Masterplan Alignment and leisure • Grass Based Sporting Review or Hardcourt Audit alignment: • Provide effective management, support, and • Trends and Demands • Resource: • Current lighting conditions 1. Local facilities 2. Prioritising local developments 3. Multi-purpose facilities. 4. Unisex facilities 5. Funding priorities

Principles An extensive list of principles were provided.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 70 6. Shepparton Role • Major partnership role with sports marketing valley sport indigenous Shepparton primary role associated with local in district level facilities that school and Melbourne University partners support participation. That includes keeping them viable. Council’s role in • Strong communication role with community use and participation regional facilities primarily an economic development role. partners, population groups and cultural groups and Malley sports and Principles • Facility management and development partners such as universities, schools etc. peak bodies • Demand • Feature location Key principles • Distribution • Equal support regardless of whether located on private Crown or Future provision • Council land • Increased usage • Degree of support influenced by the degree of commerciality, and • Sports infrastructure development • Resulting benefits to the community • Management of infrastructure development Context three aspects Criteria for supporting infrastructure development • Access to the river for recreation and propensity to flood Criteria for supporting infrastructure development based on: • Peri urban and potential to flood • increased participation • Peri-urban and potential decline of small rural communities and location established gap in demand • of groceries and future residential development • extent and type of development is commensurate with the stages of • Classified localities into T1 tier 2 and tier 3 localities that have different development and maturity of the sport issues and population sizes principal distribution • can accommodate large numbers of users as diversity to sports provided opportunities • to share • attracts target groups • is in a growth area or growth phase • potential to draw economic benefits to the city • opportunity to draw significant funds from elsewhere • nature of development is consistent with the state bodies strategic plan • development rejuvenates an asset that has passed its useful life

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 71 9. Fees And Charges; Principles

Consistency and what the fees are for What should the charge be based on? • A clear and consistent basis for charges for the use of reserves should • The whole community and government should bear the cost of be adopted. A sports club who licenses a sports ground for a season providing core assets that encourage organised and non-organised use should pay a fee which bears a relationship to the cost to maintain just of sporting and recreation facilities. that sports field and for their time of occupation. • User groups should pay the marginal cost of the use of facilities for their • Fees and charges are warranted when: specific activities, over and above the amenity and necessary facilities - A finite resource needs to be rationed or reserved, i.e. there is a open to the general public, i.e. maintenance of the change rooms, utility higher demand for space or facility than there is supply, or when a costs extra mowing at a height suitable for the activity etc., but not the user wants to guarantee that it can use a facility at a specific time cost of the garden beds, general outfield mowing etc., every week etc. for a competition • When a public facility is available to the community and used by multiple - There are costs associated with using public space or facility that not users, the users typically pay only for the time they use, i.e. for the hour everybody has access to or session they use it per week, term, or season. - There is some alienation or enclosure of land, and the public needs to • Favourable consideration will be given to a club that contributes to the pay for to access, and maintenance of facilities used by the general public. - The Council expends money on a specific service otherwise not used • If a ground is enclosed for matches, and a charge is levied at the gate, by the general public. and the public provided the cost of that fence, then typically clubs would • Community not-for-profit clubs should be charged for the same type of pay proportionately more than if a club was not able to take a gate. services regardless as to whether they are on Council or Crown Land and potentially private land. Clubs should not pay rates, water and bin fees that relate to public use and non-organised activity.

Mildura Recreation Strategy-Issues 72 Fees versus capital costs • Favourable consideration in prices should be given to a club that • Necessary infrastructure, including the ground and lights, enable people encourages juniors, older adults and people with a disability to be to play sport, and the government should bear the cost of these. A involved in the club or to play the sport, i.e. through development Club/ user group shall be responsible for the utilities required to operate programs, come and try clinics etc. these (i.e. sports lights, canteen and a pavilion) • Where possible, facilities used by clubs on public land should encourage • If clubs choose to have facilities over and above what is deemed as core shared and casual use. service – ie for large scale social rooms, then the cost of these if not used for other community services should be borne by clubs. • Where a club contributes funds to the agreed capital development of facilities such as pavilion works, fee assistance will be given for a set period. • All sport and recreation facilities should have an asset management plan prepared for them to ensure the asset is maintained in a reasonable condition across its life. Roles; who pays what? • Council should know the costs of use and servicing different assets on a reserve and understand the club's expenses. • Occupancy agreements should specify the role and responsibilities of the Council and Clubs for facilities uses and encourage sharing. Council is generally better equipped to be responsible for asset management and club to deliver fixtured activities and programs related to their sport or activity. • Fees and charges should reflect these roles and create incentives for clubs to share community infrastructure. Volunteers are limited, so they are better deployed to deliver sport to the community than to fundraise to pay fees. • If a club provides other participation opportunities in addition to club competition and training, these are seen as a way of in-kind contribution to the community instead of paying cash for ground fees.

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