PORT Fairy Football Netball Club is set for a big boost with funding from State and Federal Governments announced this week.

Wannon MP, Dan Tehan, pledged $3.2 million to complete a new community sports hub at Gardens Oval, days after the club received a $1.6 million grant from the Victorian Government.

Club president, Noel Black said the re-election funding commitment would ensure the project can go ahead.

“The club is very grateful for the support of Dan Tehan for (his) pre-election commitment of $3.2 million dollars, which will enable the Moyne Shire Council and our club to complete the new facility for the benefit of the Port Fairy community,” he said.

“When complete, we will be able to enjoy a quality regional facility with amenities that are fit for purpose to support greater participation in sport and recreational activities for all ages, genders, and abilities.

“Our club is committed to an integral and valuable provider of sporting, community, and well-being services to the Port Fairy region.

“We are absolutely delighted, and the club would also like to thank the Moyne Shire Council and our supporters.”

The improvements would ensure that Port Fairy had a fit for purpose club that could accommodate a growing population.

Tehan said the new facility would allow the entire community to participate in sport and recreation, leading to healthier lifestyles and contribute more fully to community life.

“Delivering community projects, like the Port Fairy Community Sports Hub, means we build stronger communities together,” he said.

“Sport plays such an important role in regional life and our government wants to bring people together to play sport, have fun, get healthy and be part of their community.

“Community hubs such as these will help support the growth of Port Fairy, while building strong outcomes for a healthy and connected community.”

Moyne Shire Council mayor, Ian Smith, was excited about the commitment from both levels of government in recent days.

“It is an exciting commitment which will bring the long-held vision of a new pavilion at the Gardens Oval to reality,” he said.

“When complete, this new pavilion will be a centrepiece for the both the football and netball club and the wider community – providing a modern space to gather for community events, along with facilities that meet the needs of an increasingly diverse sporting community.

“Council and the club have been advocating for this much needed upgrade for many years – it’s great to see it finally getting the attention it deserves.”