In addition to the State Government contribution, the Shire of Yarra Ranges will contribute $600,000 and the Kilsyth and Mountain District Basketball Association $1,500,000 toward the $2.6 million development.

While visiting the Centre today, Merlino made mention to the growing demand for basketball facilities within the State and also great work being done by the Kilsyth & Mountain District Basketball Association.

“The Brumby Government is taking action to ensure all Victorian communities have the facilities they need to encourage healthy, active involvement in sport and recreation,” Mr Merlino said.

“Basketball is one of the four sports played here at the Kilsyth Sports Centre, home to Kilsyth and Mountain District Basketball Association which has 15,000 members and is growing.”

“We are investing in this project to install two new courts to help the Kilsyth Sports Centre to meet the increasing demand for court space.”

“The redevelopment will enable the Centre to introduce an evening indoor netball competition, and open up opportunities to host national and regional championships.

Kilsyth Basketball General Manager Grant Wallace said the Association were extremely excited about the funding boost and were eager to begin work on the project.

“The Kilsyth Basketball community has worked tirelessly to make this project a reality and will now have a first class facility able to host a wide variety of games from local domestic competitions to National Championships.”

“The Basketball community is proudly providing $1.5 million towards the project and with $1.1 million of support from State and Local Government we can move forward.  This support will provide the local community with a facility for everyone to use from the beginner player to the SEABL elite player.”

Work will begin on the new courts mid-2009 with a planned completion for November 2009.

For all your Kilsyth Basketball news stay tuned to www.kilsythbasketball.com.au

Stadium Redevelopment Plans

James Merlino Media Release

James Merlino making official funding announcement

James Merlino, David Hodgett and Lex Cox with Junior Cobra Players at announcement

James Merlino and Lex Cox with Junior Cobra Players at announcement

DOMESTIC CLUBS