Labor delivering new stadium in Wandong

The Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Jenny Macklin, today visited Wandong with local Member for McEwen, Rob Mitchell, to confirm the Gillard Labor Government will deliver $2.25 million over the coming year to build a new stadium.

Ms Macklin and Mr Mitchell met with representatives from the Mitchell Shire Council and members of local sporting groups to share the good news.

“The new stadium will be a boost to the region after the tragedy of Black Saturday,” Ms Macklin said.

“Preparations by the Mitchell Shire Council are underway and we expect construction will begin next year.

“I hope the new stadium will be a place where local people can come together to enjoy themselves, socialise and play sports like basketball, netball and volleyball.”

Mr Mitchell welcomed the confirmation of funding for the stadium, which will allow construction to begin in early 2012.

“It’s great to be delivering on an important election commitment to the people of Wandong,” Mr Mitchell said.

“This stadium will continue to strengthen our community and create new ties and bonds that will be everlasting.

“It will also ensure that in the years to come our community’s history is never forgotten.”

About 100 local people will be employed to help build the new stadium and an extra 40 permanent jobs will be created in the future.

The stadium will include a sprung timber playing surface, competition standard lighting, a portable stage, seating, change rooms, storage facilities, car parking and landscaping.