Ferntree Gully’s next cricket superstars can look forward to perfecting their bowling and batting with a new training facility at Dobson Park.

Member for Monbulk Daniela De Martino today officially launched the new facility, made possible by a $90,000 investment from the Victorian Government’s Community Cricket Program.

There are four synthetic cricket training wickets with retractable nets, providing a multiuse practice space for the more than 180 members of the Ferntree Gully Cricket Club to develop their skills.

Local Milo Cricket, Junior Blast and Blasters and Holiday Programs will also benefit from the new facility.

The adjustable space is also a great training area for other local sports clubs including the Upper Ferntree Gully Junior Football Club.

The Community Cricket Program has invested $12.8 million in 63 cricket infrastructure projects across Victoria since 2019. This initiative is part of the Government’s investment of more than $1.6 billion in community sport and active recreation infrastructure since 2014.

Investments like these are all about creating jobs, stimulating local economies, and improving the health, wellbeing, and social outcomes for Victorian communities.

The release of the Government’s Fair Access Policy Roadmap will also help to ensure women and girls get equal access to community sport facilities like cricket training facilities across the state. Daniela De Martino MP acknowledged Knox City Council for its contribution of more than $153,000 to the project.

For more information about cricket grant opportunities available through the Victorian Government visit sport.vic.gov.au

Quotes attributable to Member for Monbulk Daniela De Martino 

“Dobson Park’s ageing cricket nets were in desperate need of an upgrade, now Ferntree Gully Cricket Club and locals have facilities that they deserve.”

“The new cricket nets will go a long way to inspiring even more locals to join in local sport, with local sport now having the facilities they need to welcome more women and girls, train longer, and compete.”

“Better facilities make it easier for Victorians to get back into local sport and recreation and live active and healthy lifestyles.”

Quotes attributable to Labor Member for Bayswater Jackson Taylor

“I was stoked to have backed in the Ferntree Gully Cricket Club with this funding from the Andrews Labor Government, and I’m really proud to see this project through.”

“The new nets have come up a treat, and I don’t doubt they’ll get good use now and for years to come.”

“Dare I say it, we’ve really hit this one for six."