Women’s and girls’ sport is set for a boost in Wonga Park with the local netball facility to undergo a major redevelopment.

We have secured a $1.47 million grant to upgrade the Wonga Park Netball Facility through the Australian Government’s Play Our Way program.

This funding is in addition to $450,000 allocated in Council’s 2024/25 capital works budget to deliver a new pavilion, lighting and to reconstruct the netball courts.

Our Mayor, Councillor Deirdre Diamante, welcomed the funding announcement, describing it as a huge win for women and girls’ sport and the Wonga Park community.

“We’d like to thank the Australian Government for their support in providing quality facilities for women and girls in Manningham that help reduce barriers and increase participation in sport and physical activity,” Cr Diamante said.

“Advocating for more inclusive and equal community facilities is a key part of Council's role and we’re thrilled that we’ve been able to achieve this significant win in collaboration with Wonga Park Netball Club.

“This is going to make a huge difference to the club and players – providing toilets, change facilities and storage at the courts. New lighting will also allow the club to train in the evenings,” the Mayor added.

Wonga Park Netball Club spokesperson, Jeanette Morriss, said the funding announcement was a fantastic early Christmas present for the club.

“We are just so excited. It’s going to be amazing for women and girls in sport and will create a much safer and inclusive space for our 150 players,” Ms Morriss said.

“We would like to thank the Federal Government for the funding and the work Councillors and Council staff have done in advocating on our behalf,” she said.