Funding boost for reserve

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Tara Murray

Bundoora United will soon be kicking goals on a new natural turf pitch at Hillsview Recreation Reserve.

Mill Park MP Lily D’ Ambrosio recently announced the state government would provide $500,000 from its 2019-20 The World Game Facilities Fund to upgrade the reserve.

The funding will enable the redevelopment of the natural turf pitch at the reserve, including the installation of new subsurface drainage, a new underground irrigation system and a new warm season grass turf playing surface.

Bundoora United, which has 440 members, is the only soccer club in South Morang, but growth in its female and junior programs has been limited due to lack of facilities.

The women’s side is the highest-ranked in the Whittlesea area, playing in state league 1 last year.

Whittlesea council has also contributed money to the project.

Ms D’ Ambrosio said football was booming in Victoria.

“We’re expecting growing numbers of boys and girls, men and women to sign up to play at local clubs, however many clubs are struggling with inadequate facilities,” she said.

“We’re working hard to encourage and enable all Victorians to embrace a more active and healthy lifestyle.”