Deakin University today announced it is investing $8.1 million to build a spectacular new Elite Regional Sports Precinct at its Waurn Ponds campus in Geelong.
The new redevelopment will include construction of an MCG-sized AFL oval, FIFA-grade soccer pitch, eight-lane 400 metre athletics track and stunning outdoor, trackside teaching facility.
“Geelong loves its sport and Deakin is a world leader in sport science teaching and exercise research, so this is a perfect match in every respect,” Vice-Chancellor Professor Jane den Hollander said.
“Our Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus is a significant contributor to teaching, research and community activity and an elite sports precinct will add another exciting chapter to that story.
“The new suite of state-of-the-art facilities will boost students’ learning experiences and increase the number of people participating in sport and recreation across the Deakin and Geelong communities.
“An MCG-sized oval will provide a unique venue for the region, but we hope to see the entire precinct on our campus become a high-profile home for sport science, training, coaching, community programs and sporting events.
“Deakin values its place in the Geelong community and I look forward to our great University and City become an even more attractive national and international drawcard.”
Professor den Hollander said a future project could involve seeking a partner to help upgrade or replace the Nicol Pavilion: “This would create a world-class sporting complex and take the new precinct to a new level.”
Under the current project, the existing sporting fields will be redeveloped as a partnership between Deakin Sport, the Faculty of Health and the Faculty of Arts and Education and include:
- MCG-size AFL oval with perimeter fencing, behind-the-goal netting, sports lighting, video recording facilities and team benches and shelters;
- Synthetic FIFA-grade soccer ground;
- Eight-lane, IAAF-accredited 400-metre athletics track;
- Outdoor teaching hub with direct access to the athletics track;
- 50-metre long-jump track and sandpit;
- Basketball/netball court;
- New baseball diamond;
- Major upgrades to the sport ovals turf; and
- New accessible paths linking the sports areas.
Construction works will be completed and ready to enjoy from April 2016.