On the 28 May 2020, the Victorian Government opened applications to Sport and Recreation Victoria’s new $68 million Community Sports Infrastructure Stimulus Program.

South Gippsland Shire Council has been successful in seeking support for the redevelopment of the Foster indoor stadium. On the 28 May 2020, the Victorian Government opened applications to Sport and Recreation Victoria’s new $68 million Community Sports Infrastructure Stimulus Program. The Program is designed to build and upgrade community sports facilities across the state. The investment aims to support local sporting clubs, create jobs, and boost Victoria’s economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic.

After consultation with community groups and Sport and Recreation Victoria, Council applied for a grant of $2,260,000 to support for the Foster Indoor Stadium Redevelopment project. Yesterday it received confirmation that the grant application was successful.

South Gippsland Shire Chair Administrator Julie Eisenbise said that the funding would give a much-loved recreation space in Foster a welcome upgrade.

“Foster indoor stadium is a well-used community facility that supports a range of sporting groups including basketball, the Football-Netball Club, badminton and a gymnasium. It is also used by the University of the 3rd Age, Foster craft market, the Show Society and local school groups.

“Unfortunately, the current court does not meet minimum compliance standards for basketball and the changeroom facilities are not accessible or well designed. The entry and other spaces lack storage and are not adequate to meet community need.

“The funded redevelopment will include a compliant basketball court, improved changerooms, dry program area, meeting rooms, kitchen/kiosk, storage space, exterior building beautification and formalised carparking. We’re very grateful to Sport and Recreation Victoria for supporting our application,” said Ms Eisenbise.