Council welcomes funding for playground and lighting projects
Published on 07 July 2025
A proposed regional playspace on the Lake Colac foreshore and lighting upgrades for three sports facilities will be a boost for physical activity across Colac Otway Shire.
Council has welcomed news of funding for four projects under Round Two of the State Government’s Regional Community Sports Infrastructure Fund.
Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence announced 41 projects across the state would share in almost $24 million from the program – four of those are in Colac Otway.
The grants program will provide $40,000 towards the design of a new regional playspace on the Lake Colac Foreshore. Council will contribute up to $60,000 for the design stage.
The playspace would cater to a broad range of ages and could include larger equipment such as climbing nets, slides, flying fox and a tree walk.
Meanwhile, Colac’s Eastern Reserve Netball Courts will receive $128,000 for a lighting upgrade. Council will also contribute $32,000 to this project.
Gellibrand Recreation Reserve Netball Courts will receive $138,666 for a lighting upgrade. Otway Districts Football Netball Club will also contribute up to $34,667.
Irrewillipe Recreation Reserve Netball Courts will receive $158,914 for a lighting upgrade and new shelters for the second court. Council will contribute up to $24,728 and the Western Eagles Football Netball Club will provide $15,000.
The lighting projects will replace outdated halogen lights with new LED lighting systems that meet Australian Standards for competition. The older systems are failing, and replacement halogen globes can no longer be sourced.
Quotes may be attributed to Interim CEO Andrew Tenni
“We’re thrilled and grateful for this funding to transform our community spaces.
“Lake Colac is the perfect spot for a regional playspace, and we’re eager to work with the community to plan a fantastic facility where kids can let their imaginations run wild.
“This playspace will be a drawcard for visitors and a highlight for local kids and families, bringing joy and excitement at every visit.
“The new lighting systems will be a real game-changer for sports clubs in Colac, Gellibrand and Irrewillipe – players and spectators will enjoy competition-standard lighting all year.
“The shelters at Irrewillipe Recreation Reserve will provide a fantastic environment for players and officials in all weather.
“These projects demonstrate our commitment to supporting local sports and ensuring our facilities provide a high standard of safety and comfort.
“We thank the State Government for the support under the Regional Community Sports Infrastructure Fund, and we hope to put forward more projects for future rounds of the program.”