Opportunities for locals to boost their health and wellbeing in Hepburn Shire are set to ramp up thanks to brand-new change facilities at Calembeen Park in Creswick, made possible by the Victorian Government.

Member for Ripon Martha Haylett MP today joined Hepburn Shire Council Mayor, Cr Brian Hood and local residents to officially open the new facilities adjacent to the park’s iconic lake and dive platform. The project was supported by more than $171,000 from the Government’s Local Sports Infrastructure Fund.

With Hepburn Shire being one of Victoria’s most popular tourist destinations, attractions like Calembeen Park provide a vital space for tourists and locals to connect with the great outdoors, get active, and boost health and fitness.

This project modernises the park and includes three female friendly change rooms, an accessible pathway to the swimming area, and amenity improvements including landscaping and seating.

The new building provides the perfect venue for locals and visitors alike, with the change areas available for a range of park users including local athletes, swimmers and families.

The Victorian Budget 2022/23 provided a further $88 million for community sports infrastructure and programs to boost participation in local sports clubs and organisations. This brings the government’s investment into community sport and active recreation infrastructure to more than $1.6 billion since 2014.

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

Ms Haylett thanked Hepburn Shire Council for its significant contribution of more than $253,000 to deliver the project.

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

Quotes attributable to Member for Ripon Martha Haylett

“The new change facilities have made Calembeen Park even better, and will go a long way to inspiring even more locals and visitors to take a splash and join in the fun at this scenic park.”

“Better facilities like this make our local attractions more accessible and family friendly, and will benefit the community for years to come.”