A second stage of the Wilf Cox Pavilion development has been put on the table by Campaspe Shire Council, softening the blow for community groups that were previously displeased with council’s handling of the $3.2 million upgrades.

With work set to begin at the Kyabram Recreation Reserve from August 1, council announced on Tuesday, June 17 its commitment to a second stage of upgrades.

Campaspe Shire Mayor Daniel Mackrell said stage two would be shaped through a comprehensive community engagement process facilitated following the conclusion of the 2025 football season.

The consultation will be led by an independent facilitator and include consultation with service users, local schools, sporting clubs, community groups and the broader Kyabram community to ensure all voices are heard.

“Council is committed to listening to our community, and we want to thoroughly understand the needs and aspirations of residents, user groups and stakeholders to ensure the next stage of upgrades reflects the priorities of those who use the space most,” Cr Mackrell said.

“Community engagement sessions will provide us with the insights needed to make informed decisions about the future of the Wilf Cox Pavilion and the wider recreation reserve.”

Wilf Cox Pavilion spokespeople Dale Denham and Steve Edwards welcomed this approach from council and said they looked forward to working with council in designing a facility that was “inclusive, functional and future ready”.

Kyabram Football Netball Club president John Guinan said he was happy about the council’s commitment to a second stage and said it was key to “future-proofing” the facilities.

“We can’t just look at what we need now — (the facilities) need to be future planned because the sport is expanding every year,” he said.

“It’s an evolving beast ... It’s very important that we can provide a facility that meets all requirements for all genders to enjoy their sport.

“It’s also important the facility is future planned to suit any expansion of sport, and in particular women’s football, or an expansion of existing grades in football and netball.

“KFNC also thinks it’s equally important that the facility suits other user groups, including the cricket club and junior netball and football clubs, moving forward.”

He said KFNC would put together a wish list of facilities that needed to be upgraded to bring the reserve up to standard for now and into the future.

Upgrades such as putting in a foyer in front of the netball change rooms, so women can have a more private space outside of playing, along with creating ramp access for catering in Wilf Cox Pavilion and upgrading the kitchen facilities.

With stage one of the upgrades set to begin August 1, user groups will exchange their home change rooms for the away change rooms.

And, with most KFNC sides almost certain to play finals, Mr Guinan said he could only hope to make the teams as comfortable as possible for practices.

“(The development) is a hard time frame, but it was always going to impede the season in some way, shape or form ... but we’ve just got to put our heads down, bums up now and look at the work that needs to be done, get in and start preparing.”

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Saturday, 17th May 2025

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