Wednesday, 1 April 2026

 Martha HAYLETT (Ripon) (10:31): It has been an extraordinary fortnight for community sport right across Ripon. On 21 March the Maryborough community came together to celebrate five brand-new synthetic tennis courts in the heart of town. Around 60 junior players were the first to take to the courts and the smiles on their faces said it all. I am so proud to have helped deliver this outcome for local kids and families, made possible thanks to $400,000 from the state Labor government. A huge thankyou to the Maryborough Tennis Centre and especially Heather and Brian Carr, whose tireless advocacy helped bring this project to life.

Last Thursday night, I was also honoured to officially open the upgraded pavilion, change rooms, umpire facilities and social space at the Navarre Recreation Reserve. This project was backed by $600,000 from our government, alongside major contributions from Northern Grampians Shire Council and Navarre Sports Association. It shows what can be done when community and government work together. I want to acknowledge everyone who helped make it happen, including Barry Fletcher, Chris Bibby, Trish Martin, Lisa Hannett, Luke Martin, Tegan McKenny and the dedicated Northern Grampians shire team including Tony Dark, Michelle Anderson, Kandee Bala and Shane Chipperfield. Thanks to their hard work, Navarre now has the modern sporting hub it deserves. Across our region, we are making real progress transforming sports infrastructure for our country communities. There is always more to do, but I am so proud of what we are delivering for Ripon.