By Shelby Brooks
The upgraded Perc Allison Reserve pavilion was officially opened on Thursday April 29, providing universal access for sports users in Beaconsfield.
The $630,000 pavilion upgrade works included universal and accessible change rooms for players and umpires, and a first aid and injury prevention/strapping room.
Built in 1982, the change rooms and toilets were unacceptable for today’s standards, Cardinia Shire Mayor Brett Owen said.
“It was built with different expectations of the community and different requirements for facilities like this one,” he said.
“I remember when it had the traditional old bank showers and urinals that are really not acceptable for our female athletes and sport participants.
“It wasn’t very good when looking at universal access.”
Used by the Beaconsfield Cricket Club, Beaconsfield Super Rules Football Club and Beaconsfield Junior Football Club, the pavilion will now allow for increased participation in sport in general and also assist clubs to support female participation in sport, Cr Owen said.
“Beaconsfield is part of Melbourne’s growth corridor and experiencing significant population growth which results in a strong demand for new recreation facilities in the shire,” he said.
Federal La Trobe MP Jason Wood was also at the official opening and said the upgrade would make a real difference to local residents in Beaconsfield who use the sporting ground every week.
“I am pleased the Morrison Liberal Government invested $500,000 to upgrade and improve the sporting facilities at Beaconsfield Recreation Reserve to help increase participation and getting local residents more active, more often,” he said.
“This venture will provide adequate change spaces and amenities for all genders and abilities to support sport and recreation activities”.
