The VRI Delacombe Cricket Club can now ramp up its training and development thanks to a new cricket training facility at its home ground at Doug Dean Reserve in Delacombe.

Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison today officially opened the new training facility, made possible by a $100,000 investment from the Victorian Government’s Community Cricket Program.

The new training facility features four synthetic cricket wickets replacing the previous ageing nets. The cricket nets are retractable and provide a great new practice space for the more than 80 members of the VRI Delacombe Dragons to develop their skills.

Local Milo Cricket, Junior Blast and Blasters, Holiday Programs and students from nearby Lumen Christi Primary School will also benefit from the new facilities. There’s also a bay available for locals keen to perfect their bowling and batting.

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 recent 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 nets across the state.

Ms Addison acknowledged the Ballarat City Council for its contribution of more than $263,000 and commitment 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 Wendouree Juliana Addison

“More than ever cricket clubs like VRI Delacombe need quality facilities they can depend on.”

“The new cricket training facility 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.”

“Love of sport begins at an early age helped by great coaches and great facilities. We want to encourage more kids to develop a love of cricket that will last a lifetime.”

Quote attributable to Ballarat Mayor Cr Daniel Moloney

“We know how fast these areas of Ballarat are growing so it is vital we have proper facilities for them to use,” he said.

“Cricket is Australia’s national sport so to be able to provide new training nets just as the cricket seasons swings into full gear is fantastic.”

Quote attributable to President of Delacombe Cricket Club Thomas Nichols

“The new nets are a game changer and allow all our players, from juniors to seniors, the chance to hone their skills throughout the season.”