Big upgrades to follow funding boost for SW sports

South West sporting facilities are set to receive an $11 million upgrade, after new funding was announced for major improvements to Hands Oval and a multi-sports and entertainment precinct in Donnybrook. Hands Oval was awarded $5 million in funding to upgrade the “antiquated facilities”, which Sport and Recreation Minister Mick Murray described as embarrassing for interstate teams to visit. Mr Murray said he’d love to see an AFL scratch match at the oval once the upgrades were completed. Upgrades would see the inclusion of female changerooms, a redevelopment of the grandstand to seat 700 patrons and South West Football League offices. Bunbury Mayor Gary Brennan said it was the best playing ground outside the metropolitan area for football and it became a multi-use facility as well, but the facilities were inadequate. The project will require an additional $5 million in funding. For Donnybrook, the State Government committed $6 million to the $12.75 million redevelopment of the sport and recreation precinct, which will be upgraded to become a community hub to co-locate sport clubs. The new facility will cater to a variety of sports, including football, tennis, netball and hockey. Donnybrook-Balingup shire president Brian Piesse welcomed the funding announcement. Developments are set to include infrastructure works to cater to all sporting groups, a new multi-purpose sports club room, improved oval lighting and a new indoor multi-purpose court.