Football Tasmania has welcomed much-needed funding approval from the federal government for vital upgrades at the state’s home of football at KGV Park, and for a football hub at North Chigwell.
Independent MP Andrew Wilkie revealed that Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack has signed off on $13.8 million in federal funds for the upgrades.
Football Tasmania President Bob Gordon believes it is now time for the building process to begin, as soon as possible.
“There are now no more excuses as to why these two much needed projects can’t get underway immediately. Glenorchy City Council now has everything it needs to get on with the job and start these urgent projects,” he said.
“Football participation in Tasmania is bursting at the seams, however facilities for the World Game haven’t kept up with growth in demand. Finding enough playing and training space for our growing number of players is one of our biggest challenges and the new football hub at North Chigwell will greatly help us to address this issue.
“KGV, the home of football in Tasmania, has been in a state of disrepair for far too long and it’s a relief the venue can now be brought up to a standard to comfortably host the hundreds of matches played there each year and safely cater for the growing number of women and girls who play our sport.
“The football community was thrilled when Andrew Wilkie announced the funding and we have been grateful for his hard work and support ever since then. Mr Wilkie is a fantastic supporter of football in Tasmania and has done everything possible to get this project happening.
“On behalf of the football community I’d like to again thank Mr Wilkie, as well Senator Eric Abetz, for their efforts in Canberra to get this funding over the line.
“Now the funding has been formally approved, the Council must outline a clear timeframe for when these projects will be completed. We’re looking forward to working together with the Glenorchy City Council to get the upgrades off the ground as soon as possible,” Gordon concluded.