Female-friendly change rooms coming to Longwood

Women and girls will soon have a purpose-built change room facility at the Longwood Recreation Reserve following a successful application by Strathbogie Shire Council for grant funding through Sport and Recreation Victoria.

The $686,825 project is funded thanks to $549,460 from Sport and Recreation Victoria’s Regional Community Sports Infrastructure Fund, $50,075 from Longwood Football Netball Club and $87,290 from Strathbogie Shire Council including in-kind contributions.

Council will work to deliver this project this financial year as part of its 2024-25 capital works program.

Strathbogie Shire Administrator Peter Stephenson said this was great news for women and girls in the community and showed what we can achieve when we work closely with our community groups and the State Government.

“The support from Council is already factored into our Capital Budget for 2024-25, so there is no additional impact to our current financial position − including taking into account possible cost escalations,” Mr Stephenson said.

“When completed, this project will provide a much-needed facility for female participants who currently do not have an adequate space to change prior or post competition and training. This also makes it possible for the club to attract new participants and groups with a fit for purpose female-friendly facility.

“During the consultation phase of the Longwood Masterplan development, led by the Longwood Community Action Group, it became clear a female-friendly netball change facility was a high priority for the community.

“The Longwood Football and Netball Club, with the support from the Longwood Community Centre Incorporated, have worked tirelessly to help us secure funding for this important community facility and I thank them for their commitment and shared vision.

“Government funding streams and partnerships like this are vital for Councils and rural communities to be able to upgrade sport and recreation facilities,” he said.