Funding announced for Mortlake Recreation Reserve

Published on 15 April 2026

Moyne Shire Council, in partnership with the Mortlake Recreation Reserve Committee of Management (the Committee), has secured $500,000 in funding from the Victorian Government’s 2025–26 Local Sports Infrastructure Fund (Community Facilities Stream) for the Mortlake Recreation Reserve women and girls change facility.

The funding was approved by the Minister for Community Sport, the Hon. Ros Spence MP, and announced on Thursday 9 April 2026. The $500,000 State Government commitment complements contributions of $250,000 from Moyne Shire Council and more than $140,000 from the Committee from fund-raising and philanthropic donations.

This significant investment supports Council’s strategic commitment to fostering inclusive, healthy and connected communities through the delivery of equitable and accessible community infrastructure.

Jacinta Ermacora MP joined a gathering at the Mortlake Recreation Reserve this morning, which included representatives from Moyne Shire Council, the Committee, various clubs that use the facility and surprise guest, Mortlake cricket star Georgia Wareham.

“Congratulations to Mortlake Recreation Reserve Committee - this boost will go a long way to support the growing number of women playing sport in our community,” said Ms Ermacora.

Moyne Shire Mayor, Cr Jordan Lockett said the new change facility will promote gender equity, improve safety and accessibility, and remove participation barriers for women and girls

“We welcomed the funding announcement for this project, which represents an important step forward for community sport and inclusion across the region,” said Cr Lockett.

The project is a great example of well-planned and community-driven infrastructure delivery. The Committee has worked tirelessly over many years to implement the Mortlake Recreation Reserve Masterplan, and with this latest announcement, total investment in capital improvements at the reserve has now exceeded $3 million since 2018.

Chair of the Masterplan Implementation Group for the Committee, Mr Mick Murphy OAM, said the funding marks a major milestone for the reserve and its users.

“This is the final element of the masterplan, which will fulfill the long-term vision for the Mortlake Recreation Reserve,” said Mr Murphy.

“There have been many people involved in reaching this point, and I’d like to acknowledge all the volunteers who have contributed along the way,” he said.

These outcomes reflect the strength of collaboration between the Committee, Moyne Shire Council, State and Federal Governments, user groups and local philanthropic trusts, all working together to deliver improved facilities and greater opportunities for participation in sport and recreation across the Shire.

PHOTO from left to right: Mick Murphy OAM, Will Berryman, Noel McConnell, Georgia Wareham, Jacinta Wareham, Jacinta Ermacora MP, Pippa Irving, Melissa Irving, Judi Robertson, Cr Jordan Lockett