THE vast expanse of empty land at Don McDonnell Reserve could soon be home to sporting infrastructure including cricket nets, football goal posts and a basketball half-court following a proposal from a local sport enthusiast.
Conroe Heights resident Brenton Telford presented to elected members at Mount Gambier City Council’s June draft budget meeting, requesting an allocation be made in council’s 2017/18 budget for the installation of sporting equipment at the underused reserve.
Council resolved to allocate $20,000 in its 2017/18 draft budget to purchase and install infrastructure following further community consultation.
“I have lived near the reserve for 10 years and the idea has weighed on my mind for a decade,” Mr Telford told The Border Watch.
“Right now it is a massive area going to waste – there is a playground which is great for the little kids but there is nothing nearby for older kids and teenagers.
“A set of AFL goals, soccer goals, cricket nets or a half-court basketball court will encourage primary and secondary school age kids to get outside and be active.
“I did a walk around the area to have a chat to residents overlooking the park and the response was overwhelmingly positive.”
Mr Telford said sweeping views across the reserve would appeal to parents.
“The area is residential and at a guess I would say there are 50 to 100 homes with a view of the reserve – anyone can keep an eye on the kids from their lounge room or over the back fence,” he said.
“That natural surveillance makes it a safe area and will keep behaviour in check.”
Councillor Christian Greco welcomed the proposal and suggested further community consultation before installing infrastructure.
“It would be great to get some figures on population in the area – I would imagine a fair percentage of the population live in Conroe Heights and the area is definitely lacking these facilities,” Cr Greco said.
“We should conduct further consultation before we go ahead and install equipment but I think most residents will love the idea.”
Councillor Hanna Persello agreed the proposal warranted further investigation.
“I think even if we start with something there, whatever is feasible within budget, we can build on it later,” she said.
“It will be a worthy capital expense.”
Mr Telford said he was delighted with the outcome.
“I walked out of there feeling like I already had some support from council and I was really excited to hear they had allocated the funds,” he said.
“I’m excited to see it develop – there’s a lot of potential.”
