Mayor of Brimbank, Cr Margaret Giudice said the development was great news for local sports and sports participation.

“The additional sportsground with new flood lighting will open up the space for year round use for men’s, women’s and junior cricket, soccer, football and other activities.

“Brimbank Council has been working to improve the facilities at the Bon Thomas Reserve to increase its capacity to be used for both winter and summer seasons.

“Players will be able to enjoy the new synthetic cricket wicket and the additional floodlit ground will mean there will be two ovals that can be used for evening practice or matches in all seasons. 

“This can only mean great things for the future of local sport in Deer Park and Brimbank as a whole,” Cr Giudice said.

Brimbank City Council has allocated $1.3 million from the 2017/2018 Capital Works budget for the new sportsground and floodlighting.

The second playing surface is the next phase in a series of developments for the Bon Thomas Reserve.

“We’re also about to get started on sealing the existing gravel carpark and installing car park lighting at a cost of about $380,000.

“There’s also a further $220,000 for a barbecue, drinking fountain, extension of the playground, fitness equipment, access paths and park furniture.”

Construction was recently completed on the new $850,000 unisex change rooms at the reserve, previously there were no facilities at the site.

New change rooms were needed to support female participation in local sport, a strong focus for Council.

The new change rooms can accommodate men, women and juniors. The facility includes toilets, showers and change room areas.