Facilities at the much-loved Corben Oval will be revitalised thanks to the $1.6 milllion secured by the Member for Northcote, Kat Theophanous

Located at Yarra Bend Park, in the Northcote Electorate, Corben Oval is part of the Andrew’s Labor Government’s $52 million budget investment to improve the state’s parks and playgrounds.

The Pavilion, which operates as a change rooms for the local cricket, soccer and AFL teams and as a public bathroom, will be upgraded and refurbished.

Prior to the interruption, local sports clubs such as the Thornbury Turf Strokers Cricket Club had been unable to properly use the facilities due to a complex maintenance issue relating to the power connection.

The funding announced in the November State Budget means $1.6 million will be dedicated to a fixing the mains power issue and delivering upgraded facilities for players, supporters and locals who use the park.

The upgrades come after sustained work by the Member for Northcote, along with representatives from the Thornbury Turf Strokers and the Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change.

The works, which are subject to heritage approval and an Aboriginal cultural heritage assessment, will be completed in two phases, beginning with the connection of an electrical supply. Due to the toilet block’s heritage overlay, the interior will be modernised, while exterior upgrades will remain true to the building’s original façade.

Quotes attributable to Kat Theophanous, Labor Member for Northcote

“It’s been a long off-season for so many local sports players, but while play was stopped the hard work continued off the field to make sure these facilities at Corben Oval will be brought back to life.”

“This funding delivers a great win for community sports clubs, sports fans and Yarra Bend Park users.”

Quotes attributable to Patrick Hargreaves, President Thornbury Turf Strokers

“This is a fantastic announcement and we’re thankful for the State Government and Parks Victoria’s support. We’re especially grateful for the hard work of Kat Theophanous MP, who fought for us when it seemed like nobody would listen.

“Returning power to the ground and modernising the rooms is vital for us to get a women’s team up next year.”