Current situation

The Club’s current netball facilities (amenities and shelters) are no longer fit for purpose and do not accommodate the reasonable needs of netball players, officials, families and spectators. In particular, the shelters are now in substandard condition, with visible signs of ageing and damage. The inadequate size and state of the facilities present numerous challenges and is impacting the overall experience and safety of the growing netball community. Upgraded facilities are of paramount importance and need to be provided as soon as possible.

Why this is important

The health and wellbeing benefits of female participation in team sports such as netball are well documented. Research shows that females who are physically active have better mental health outcomes and a reduction in chronic disease; both of which have a significant impact on the economy. In addition, the social connection from participation increases a female’s confidence and sense of belonging.

Physical and social environments can be major barriers to females participating in sport and unfortunately the current condition of the netball facilities within the Reid Oval sporting precinct is evidence of this. The inadequate size and design of the current facilities poses a significant safety risk for players, officials, families and spectators due to congregation of all participants and spectators near player benches and the umpire & administrator rooms.

 Warrnambool Football and Netball Club (WFNC) is committed to creating a safe and inclusive sporting environment to ensure that women from all backgrounds have the opportunity to participate and benefit from the positive effects of sport. 

The Solution

Upgrade of the netball facilities presents a unique opportunity to further showcase the Reid Oval Sporting Precinct as a premier regional sporting facility.

Proposed new shelters will reduce the congregation of people away from the player area, thus improving the player experience. It will allow for a safer flow of people to and from change rooms; and move foot traffic away from umpires, volunteers and officials on game day. The proposed shelters will improve accessibility for all spectators and provide an inclusive space that offers protection from the elements.

The upgraded facilities will directly support WFNC’s growing netball base of 12 netball teams (in excess of 130 players, from 6 years of age up), coaching and support staff, volunteers and officials of which the majority are female. In addition, the facilities are also used on a regular basis by opposition teams, District League teams, other community sporting groups and local schools. The proposed shelter upgrade will therefore also strengthen partnerships and build community collaboration resulting in positive outcomes for the whole community.