Works are underway to improve the drainage at the Pakenham Upper Recreation Reserve. 78492 Picture: Stewart Chambers
By Danielle Galvin
THE Pakenham Upper Recreation Reserve’s facelift and extension is well underway and the committee has thanked Cardinia Shire Council for its help.
Chris Gunton, who has been the reserve’s chairman for three years, said it was great that the upgrade was underway.
“As a chairman I’ve given them a bit of flack over the years but they certainly have gotten behind us in the last couple years,” he said.
The reserve’s upgrade includes change rooms, toilets and showers, which is a first for the club.
“The major drainage upgrade will support winter sports and improve facilities for the beginning of the cricket season,” he said.
“The drainage works started last Tuesday.”
The extension to the pavilion started in January and is expected to be finished by the end of April.
Mr Gunton was impressed by the development to date and the workers who were at the reserve on Monday while others enjoyed the public holiday.
“The council have given us a lot of support and guidance.
“The council’s CEO Garry McQuillan and his team have been a big help these past two and a half years,” he said.
“We’re all volunteers, they have been really supportive.”
Mr Gunton thanked the players who had been affected by the ongoing work at the reserve.
“The Pakenham Upper Cricket Club have made a sacrifice in relinquishing their home ground advantage in the finals for the men’s and women’s teams,” he said.
The Cora Lynn Junior Football Club has also been using the ground.
“They started up here two years ago and they are looking to expand this year,” he said.
“Their aim is to have under nines, 11s and 12s.”
Mr Gunton said that there was a shortage of ovals in the area and he encouraged players and families who were interested in joining the Cora Lynn club to get in touch with Anthony Stevens.
“They’ve only been able to grow because of the support of the shire,” he said.
