ISLAND voice continues to advocate for the future of Phillip Island, and according to Peter McMahon, the federal candidates for Monash are seeing the future of the Phillip Island sporting and recreation precinct as a priority.
“Candidates see this project as the number one project in Bass and potentially Monash. It's a pity the Shire can't see it, or are we about to see a change,” said Peter.
It seems the project that has been advocated for, for over 20 years may just have a wave of renewed political backing, with Federal Labor candidate for Monash, Tully Fletcher, Independent candidate for Monash, Deb Leonard, and Member for Monash, Russell Broadbent MP (Independent candidate for Monash) voicing their support.
The Federal Member for Monash, Russell Broadbent MP, announced on April 9 his commitment to fight for $10 million to kickstart the planning and preparation of the recreation and sporting hub at Phillip Island.
The initial plan includes two football ovals, two soccer pitches, an aquatic centre, a dog park, and basketball and netball courts. There is also scope to cater for cricket, tennis and skateboarding.
Mr Broadbent recently met with Island Voice committee members Peter Paul and Peter McMahon to discuss the proposal.
Mr McMahon said the complex would put the entire region on the map. “This area could become a legacy project for Phillip Island because we believe it is destined to become the football headquarters for the greater region,” he said.
Building on the Island’s global reputation as a sporting venue, Mr Broadbent said the complex would further promote sports participation across the region.
Tully Fletcher responded to the Sentinel-Times stating that the community has been talking about this project for his entire life, “and I’m nearly 40 with two kids. That’s long enough,” Mr Fletcher said.
“Since we first started talking about the new recreation reserve, Phillip Island's permanent population has tripled in size from 5,000 to 15,000. A population that big deserves a modern multi-sport recreation reserve, and a lot more investment from all levels of government in new services and infrastructure,” he said.
“I prioritised this project at the beginning of my campaign for Monash and I've already met with Bass Coast, Island Voice, and the Phillip Island Football Netball Club about it. The need for federal investment in the new recreation reserve is clear and if I'm elected as the new federal member for Monash, I'll deliver it.
“I'm a genuine local with the runs on the board in business and government to get things done for Monash. Islanders can take me at my word when I say I'll get this done.”
Deb Leonard also shared her interest in the project, she says, “I am acutely aware how our community has been ignored in relation to funding for the new Phillip Island Aquatic Centre and Recreation Reserve. If elected, I am committed to securing federal funding to get this project off the ground.
“I've met with representatives of the Phillip Island Football Netball Club who say they are having to turn kids away due to lack of capacity. I 100% support this project, it's vital our growing community has these facilities.
With all eyes now on the federal election and mounting pressure from residents, sporting clubs and advocacy groups like Island Voice, Phillip Island’s long-delayed recreation reserve could finally be on the brink of becoming reality – if promises translate into action.