ATTACHMENT 10.3 - Shire of Mansfield · 2018-06-22 · Defining Council's Role ... Whilst the primary focus of the study is on the Mansfield Township as the recognised central hub

Mansfield Shire Council – Ordinary Meeting of Council: 26 June 2018

ATTACHMENT 10.3.3

Mansfield Shire Sport Facilities Strategy 2018-2028

ATTACHMENTS: SPORTS FACILITY STRATEGY

BACKGROUND RESEARCH REPORT (92 PAGES)

Final Report – June 2018

Sport Facilities Strategy

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2 | P a g e Sports Facilities Strategy: Final report

Contents 1. Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 3

2. Vision, Principles and Roles............................................................................................................. 4

Vision ................................................................................................................................................... 4

Guiding Principles ............................................................................................................................... 4

Defining Council's Role ........................................................................................................................ 5

3. Strategic Context ............................................................................................................................. 6

Location ............................................................................................................................................... 6

Population characteristics ................................................................................................................... 6

Planning Influences ............................................................................................................................. 6

Council Plan and Strategic Resource Plan ....................................................................................... 6

Other strategic documents and directions ..................................................................................... 7

Participation trends ........................................................................................................................ 7

4. Consultation Activities .................................................................................................................... 9

Community Survey .......................................................................................................................... 9

Club Survey ................................................................................................................................... 10

5. Existing Sport Facility Provision .................................................................................................... 12

6. Demand Assessment ..................................................................................................................... 21

7. Strategic Action Plan ..................................................................................................................... 22

8. Appendices .................................................................................................................................... 24

Appendix 1: Sport and Recreation Management Framework .......................................................... 25

Infrastructure Development and Maintenance Guide ................................................................. 25

Appendix 2: Draft Funding Framework ............................................................................................. 36

Introduction / Purpose .................................................................................................................. 36

Definitions ..................................................................................................................................... 36

Scope ............................................................................................................................................. 36

Requests for Capital Works Projects ............................................................................................. 36

Potential Funding .......................................................................................................................... 38

Appendix 3: Priority Project Indicative Concepts ............................................................................. 39

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1. Introduction Mansfield Shire Council recognises the health and wellbeing benefits that can be derived from

participation in a range of sports and physical activities. Sports facilities not only facilitate physical

activity participation opportunities that can contribute to individual health and wellbeing, they also

support broader positive community outcomes, including social connections, community belonging,

identity, social gatherings and community resilience.

The Sport Facilities Strategy builds on recent Council planning for recreation, leisure, health and

wellbeing. Specifically the aim of the project is to build upon the existing Mansfield Shire Sport and

Recreation Strategy (2014-2019) to better understand the current and likely future recreational

needs of the community and to develop a framework for the effective provision, management and

development of sporting facilities over the next ten years.

Whilst the primary focus of the study is on the Mansfield Township as the recognised central hub for

the municipality, the strategy also considers the sport facility and infrastructure needs of other

townships and settlements.

Quality sport facilities enable broad community use, events, tourism and contribute to the overall

economic sustainability of the communities in which they exist. Therefore sport and leisure facilities

contribute to physical health, mental health, community connectedness, character, general

wellbeing and economic sustainability.

Council is facing a number of significant challenges in relation to existing sports facilities and

recreation reserves throughout the Shire, including ageing infrastructure, increasing maintenance

and renewal costs, changing community needs, expectations and shifting physical activity

participation preferences.

The Sports Facilities Strategy has been developed having regard to a number of influences, including:

Relevant national, state and local policies, plans and strategies.

Demographic data and population forecasts.

Sport and physical activity participation trends.

Community and stakeholder consultation results.

Sport facility demand assessment.

The realistic capacity of Council and stakeholders to implement actions.

This document provides an overview of relevant background material and presents the vision,

principles, strategies and actions to guide Council priorities in supporting the sports facility needs of

the community over the next ten years.

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2. Vision, Principles and Roles

Vision Having regard to the research and consultation results, the vision for the Sport Facilities Strategy is

defined as:

Enhancing community health and wellbeing through sport, recreation and

leisure.

Council will contribute to all residents achieving a high level of physical and

mental wellbeing by ensuring sport facilities and services reflect community

needs and the realistic capacity of key stakeholders to sustainably support.

Guiding Principles The Vision is supported by the following guiding principles:

Equity of Access: o Council recognises that all residents should have access to an appropriate range of sport,

recreation and physical activity participation opportunities regardless of their socio-economic status, ethnicity, age, gender or ability.

o All new (or redeveloped) sport facilities and infrastructure will consider opportunities to incorporate Universal Design and Female Friendly Sport Infrastructure principles as standard practice in order to encourage access for all.

o Council will strive for an equitable allocation of resources that promotes inclusiveness and a balance between formal sport and informal recreation opportunities that reflect community needs.

Diversity and Choice: o Council encourages and supports a variety of physical activity participation options that

enable individuals to make choices based on their needs and interests.

Lifelong Involvement: o Council will support opportunities for participation in physical activities for individuals

and groups across all age groups and life stages, i.e. children, adults and seniors.

A Sustainable Approach: o The standard, scale and scope of sport facilities will primarily focus on servicing local

Shire residents. Therefore elite, specialist or low participation facilities that are designed to service larger catchments beyond the Shire’s population capacity are unlikely to be a priority within the life of this plan.

o Council encourages and supports the development of sustainable sport and recreation facilities and operational environments having regard to the financial capacity of Council, key stakeholders, demonstrated demand, lifecycle costs and effective asset maintenance capacity.

Research and Planning: o Council supports appropriate research and planning that identifies current and future

recreation needs and informs sound decision making. An ongoing commitment to community consultation, engagement and relationship building will be critical in this regard.

Shared Use and Flexibility: o The provision of open space settings (particularly active / formal sports reserves) and

leisure facilities shall maximise opportunities for shared use and in-built flexibility to adapt or change over time in order to respond to potential variations in community needs or aspirations.

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o Opportunities for co-location of leisure facilities with other compatible community facilities will be explored in order to create vibrant multi-use community activity hubs.

Defining Council's Role Council’s role in sport, recreation and leisure provision will vary depending on the issue/s being

addressed.

A key challenge (for Council and individual communities) continues to be effective and sustainable

asset maintenance and renewal of sports infrastructure.

Communities are increasingly being asked to consider their priorities in order to guide overall

resource allocation. Demand for new sport facilities across the Shire is likely to remain relatively low

(with some notable exceptions, including indoor sport provision and pavilion upgrades), rather the

focus will be on maintaining and improving existing assets to maximise usage, maintain safety and

meet contemporary user expectations.

Notwithstanding the challenge associated with ongoing asset maintenance and renewal, there is an

opportunity for Council to broaden its role in facilitating community wellbeing through the

promotion of active, healthy lifestyles in order to help address wider health objectives, National

trends (i.e. obesity, diabetes, heart disease, etc.) and an ageing community profile.

Council also has an ongoing interest in the health and sustainability of local sporting clubs and

groups in order to support participation opportunities for the community and maximise effective use

of existing facilities. Council’s role in supporting local sporting clubs and groups extends beyond

infrastructure provision and includes initiatives that promote well-governed, diverse, skilled and

sustainable organisations.

In general, Council's role will fall into one of the following four categories:

Plan:

Facilitate the planning and renewal of sport and leisure facilities, services and opportunities to

address identified (current and future) community needs.

Provide:

Support the provision and development of sport and leisure facilities, services and programs to

meet the needs of the current and future community.

Partner:

Work in partnership with other levels of Government, schools, clubs and community groups to

ensure that sport and leisure facilities, programs and services meet the diverse needs of the

community.

Support sporting clubs, groups and communities to help themselves by assisting capacity

building and community driven initiatives.

Support appropriate commercial operators to provide sport and leisure facilities or services in

response to market driven demands.

Advocate & Inform:

Advocate to other levels of Government and relevant stakeholders regarding issues and

opportunities that are likely to impact on physical activity and sport participation opportunities

in the Shire.

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Provide information to the community regarding the range of sport and leisure opportunities

available to residents, including promotion of the health and wellbeing benefits of participation

in physical activity.

3. Strategic Context

Location Mansfield Shire is located approximately two hours north east of Melbourne. The landscape is

dominated by the Great Dividing Range and includes the alpine resorts of Mt Buller and Mt Stirling.

The Shire boasts major river systems, lakes, mountains and broad productive valleys where

agriculture and rural living integrate. Lake Eildon is a dominant feature in the southern half of the

municipality and is recognised as one of Victoria’s most popular inland waterways for recreational

boating activities.

Population characteristics The Shire has experienced consistent population growth over the last decade, growing from

approximately 6,631 people in 2001 to an estimated 8,584 in 2016. Forecasts indicate that by 2031,

the population is expected to increase by around a further 1,000 people to approximately 9,596

residents1.

An increase of this size will not automatically require the provision of new or additional sport and

leisure facilities, however the standard, maintenance and capacity of existing facilities may need to

be improved in order to cater for modest increases in demand associated with population growth.

The age profile of the community continues to follow an ageing trend. In 2016, the median age of

residents in Mansfield Shire was 48 years. However between the 2011 Census and forecast profile in

2031, the proportion of 0-19 year olds and 20-65 year olds will be lower than it is currently, however

the proportion of those aged over 65 years will increase.

The ageing profile of the community will influence leisure participation demands. Whilst demand for

participation in traditional formal sports can be expected to experience modest growth associated

with population increases, demand for informal, non-club based leisure opportunities can be

expected to increase associated with the physical activity participation preferences of an ageing

community.

Planning Influences

Council Plan and Strategic Resource Plan Development of the Sports Facilities Strategy has been influenced by the strategic directions

outlined in a range of other higher order Council planning documents, in particular the Council Plan

2017-2021 which includes strategic objectives for supporting community health and wellbeing,

sustainability (economic, social and environmental), enhancing existing assets and forward planning

to meet the changing needs of the community.

1 Sources:

http://www.censusdata.abs.gov.au/census_services/getproduct/census/2016/quickstat/LGA24250?opendocument (accessed 3/7/2017)

http://www.mansfield.vic.gov.au/Libraries/Community_Development/Mansfield_2012.sflb.ashx (accessed 3/7/17)

Victoria in Future 2016, Mansfield Shire

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http://www.censusdata.abs.gov.au/census_services/getproduct/census/2016/quickstat/LGA24250?opendocument


http://www.mansfield.vic.gov.au/Libraries/Community_Development/Mansfield_2012.sflb.ashx


The Council Plan also incorporates the organisations Strategic Resource Plan (SRP) which outlines

resource requirements to support implementation of key initiatives and ongoing operations. Whilst

Council’s overall liquidity appears sound, the financial position and operating environment remains

significantly challenged. Opportunities for cost savings in services, operations and asset

management are actively being explored.

Council’s asset renewal deficit and backlog of required maintenance works remain a priority for

resource allocation within the capacity of the SRP. There is, on average, a 50:50% split between

renewal spend and new/upgrade spend of Council cash reserves. This focus will allow the forecast

asset renewal gap to close by 2021.

Therefore, recommendations developed as part of the Sports Facilities Strategy need to be cognisant

of the realistic financial capacity of Council and key stakeholders to implement resultant actions.

Potential recommendations for major infrastructure investment and new facilities are only likely to

be viable if significant external funding and partnerships can be achieved. This may impact on timing

of potential delivery (i.e. subject to external influences) and require ongoing advocacy in order to

secure funds.

Recommendations that may impact on programs and service delivery will generally be required to

be delivered within existing operational resources.

Other strategic documents and directions The Sports Facilities Strategy is also influenced by Federal and State Government directions including

the National Sport and Active Recreation Policy Framework and Sport & Recreation Victoria priority

areas – i.e. participation, sustainability and female sport – as these reflect potential external funding

opportunities.

Council has already recognised the importance of increasing physical activity and community

wellbeing through the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan. Understanding sport and

recreation trends, including participation preferences and sport facility needs is therefore integral to

targeting initiatives that support increasing participation.

Participation trends A comprehensive review of industry trends is included in the Background Research Report. For

example, we know that the average membership per sports club in Mansfield Shire has increased

from 108 in 2013 to 140 in 2017. The total combined membership of all clubs that responded to the

research survey has increased from 2,055 to 2,809. Increasing membership will continue to

contribute to greater demand for appropriate facilities and support infrastructure.

We also know that there are more junior members compared to seniors, i.e. 50% compared to 39%.

However, approximately 26% of all members are aged over 50 years. The research confirms that

regardless of club membership trends the most popular physical activities in terms of total

participation numbers are dominated by informal recreation as opposed to club based sports

participation.

Walking for exercise, fitness or recreation remains the most popular physical activity of choice for

Victorian adults.

Whilst acknowledging a broader preference for non-club based, informal recreation activities –

particularly by older adults - the Sports Facilities Strategy recognises the importance of sustaining

local sporting clubs. Sporting clubs not only provide physical activity participation opportunities for

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children and young adults, they provide a vital outlet for community expression, identity, belonging

and social gathering for all age groups, not just those participating on the field.

Across the State there is burgeoning interest and participation (both as players and officials) in a

range of sports by women and girls, including activities traditionally dominated by males, for

example Austrian Rules Football, cricket and soccer as well as ongoing participation interest in

netball and basketball.

Demand for organised sport opportunities, particularly for children aged 5-15 years and young adults

aged 15-24 years, will remain significant, including traditional activities undertaken in the Shire,

notably football, cricket, netball, basketball and to a lesser extent tennis and soccer.

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4. Consultation Activities The planning process for the Sports Facilities Strategy has involved a range of targeted consultation

activities, in particular:

On-line community survey 159 completed.

Sports Club / Group survey 30 completed.

Public submissions 5 individuals / groups.

School and stakeholder interviews

Key findings from the consultation activities are outlined in the Background Research Report.

Consultation findings have informed the vision and actions outlined later in this report. A number

notable findings are presented below.

Community Survey Survey respondents identified more than 35 different sports and activities that they regularly

participate in. This reflects a good level of diversity and opportunities available in the Shire – many

of which reflect the geographic characteristics of the Shire, for example snow sports, hiking, fishing,

mountain walking and equestrian activities.

Around half of the activities identified are club-based organised sports – including tennis, netball,

AFL football, cricket, basketball and golf as popular examples in Mansfield Shire - however the most

popular activities overall reflect a preference for casual and informal participation opportunities,

which is consistent with State and National trends, in particular the popularity of walking and

cycling.

A lack of facilities was identified as a key reason for non-participation in sport and recreation

activities across the Shire (i.e. 39.66% of respondents). Suggested facility gaps primarily related to a

lack of indoor courts, indoor aquatic and adequate change room/pavilion facilities. The poor

standard of existing facilities was identified by a further 10.34% of respondents – therefore half of all

respondents (39.66% + 10.34 = 50%) identified facilities as a major constraint to participation.

There is very strong support for the provision of quality sport and recreation facilities from the

survey respondents – over 95% identified them as extremely important or important.

The areas/activities where Council’s performance rated most highly (i.e. Good, Very good or

Excellent) included:

Provision of sport and recreation facilities and infrastructure (72.5%).

Sports field and court maintenance (72.7%).

Supporting local sporting clubs and recreation groups (62.9%).

Improving existing sport and recreation facilities (61.8%).

Areas/activities where Council’s performance rated most poorly (i.e. Poor or Very poor) included:

Developing new sport and recreation facilities (50.3%).

Providing a diverse range of sport and recreation facilities (36.6%).


Pavilion, club rooms and building maintenance (29.1%).

Approximately 42.1% of respondents indicated that existing sport and recreation facilities usually or

always meet their needs. However, slightly over one quarter of respondents (27.1%) suggested that

facilities seldom or never meet their needs.

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Community survey respondents were asked to suggest priorities for Council in relation to current

and future sport and recreation facilities. This was an open ended question which attracted

considerable feedback. The most common suggested priorities (in order) included:

Facility improvements – upgrade, retain and refurbish existing facilities as well as create new

facilities where required.

Establish a year-round indoor aquatic and recreation centre.

Establish change room facilities at Lords Reserve.

Establish a new indoor sports facility (i.e. Basketball / Netball stadium).

Continue to support sports facilities in each major township.

Complete the soccer fields and facilities adjacent to the Secondary College.

Additional outdoor netball courts with lighting and shelter.

Club Survey A selection of key findings from the Club survey are presented below.

The survey responses confirm club membership has increased in recent years. Increasing club

membership will contribute to greater demand for sport facilities and associated infrastructure.

There are slightly more male club members than female (i.e. 51% compared to 42%). Similarly, there

are more junior members (under 18 years) compared to seniors (over 18years), i.e. 50% compared

to 39%. However, almost one quarter of all members are aged over 50 years (26%) which is

reflective of the age profile of the community.

Areas where Council performance rated highest included:

Responsiveness to user group enquiries/requests.

Sports field maintenance.

Keeping user groups up-to-date with information.

Areas where Council performance rated lowest included:

Developing new sport and recreation facilities.

Providing club development and management support.

Supporting initiatives to increase participation.

Meeting the needs of your club or group.

Meeting the needs of your sport or activity across the shire.

In addition, 1 in 3 clubs indicated that facilities do not meet their needs and almost half of all club

responses (47.6%) indicated that facilities only meet their needs ‘sometimes’ – common suggested

reasons for not meeting needs included comments related to the age, condition and standard of

existing buildings, with many comments noting their lack of suitability for female use.

Clubs were asked to nominate the biggest challenges they are facing. Common responses generally

fell into three themes, specifically – Facilities and Infrastructure; Club Support and Operations; and

Participation.

Clubs were then asked to nominate the top three priorities for sport and recreation facilities across

the entire Shire over the next ten years. This was an open ended question which attracted

considerable feedback, however the highest priorities suggested by clubs (in order) were:

Maintenance and refurbishment of existing facilities;

Establish pavilion and change room facilities at Lords Oval;

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2-court indoor multi-use indoor sports stadium at MSC, potentially including a permanent

gymnastics area; and

Complete the Additional Playing Fields at the High School to cater for soccer and potentially

junior football/cricket.

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5. Existing Sport Facility Provision Council provides and supports a diverse range of sports facilities and infrastructure across the Shire. The main sports facilities, user groups,

usage, asset age, ownership and recent capital works in each major township are identified below.

Ref. Facility Location Description User groups Usage Asset Approx. Age

Ownership / Management

Recent significant Council capital / renewal costs

Mansfield

1. Mansfield Recreation Reserve – Sports Complex

Highett Street Mansfield

Single court indoor stadium. Indoor court.

Multi-use indoor sports and activities, including school use. Basketball Club Gymnastics Club Mansfield Badminton Association Social Badminton Lifeball group Mansfield Secondary School

Sports Complex at capacity Monday-Friday during school terms. At 30% capacity out of term and mostly unused on weekends. 350 members. 65% male, 35% female. 80% aged under 18 years. Usage: 20-30 hours per week. Weekday - After 4pm and Sundays 80-100% of total use. 65 members. 30% male, 70% female. All aged under 18 years. Usage: Approx. 2.5 hours per week during school terms. Approx. 1.5. hours per week, year-round. Approx. 1.5. hours per week, year-round. Approx. 1.5. hours per week, year-round.

45 years Council 12/13 - $ 45,257.54 - Asbestos removal and replacement & general maintenance & annual recoat 13/14 - $19,904.09 - Door/Wall between toilets & complex, general maintenance & annual recoat 14/15 - $10,991.38 - Stormwater & water mains works, general maintenance & annual recoat 15/16 - $10,642.04 - External door and spectator seating repairs, general maintenance and annual recoat 16/17 - $8,278.05 - Seating area & vent repairs, general maintenance and annual recoat 5 year average - $95,073.10 ($19,014.62 per year)

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Mansfield Primary School

Approx. 12 hours per week during school term. Approx. 6 hours per week during school term.

2. Mansfield Recreation Reserve – Swimming Pool Complex


33m x 6 lane outdoor pool, 10m learners’ pool

Swimming club, schools and community.

Pool has approx. 20,000 visits per season.

Change Rooms 30 Years. Main Pool 60 years. Learner Pool 30 years. Kiosk 30 years. Plant Room 23 Years. Toddler Pool 30 Years. Hazchem Shed 15 years. Swim Club Shed 15 years.

Council (facility contracted to the YMCA from November to March)

12/13 - $265,173 - Whole pool refurb including lining and pipe work for filtration, redirect backwash to sewer 13/14 - $20,673 - Painting of changerooms, preseason and general maintenance. 14/15 - $7,795 - Preseason and general maintenance. 15/16 - $15,281 - Repairs to solar, preseason and general maintenance. 16/17 - $27,942 - Change sand in filters, replace loose tiles in learner pool, new shade sail, solar repairs, preseason and general maintenance. 5 year total = $336,864 5 year average = $67,372 p.a.

3. Mansfield Recreation Reserve – Sports Oval


Football / cricket oval and associated infrastructure – e.g. clubrooms, electronic scoreboard, timekeepers and corporate box facility.

Mansfield Football-Netball Club

70% weekend oval use year round for football and cricket. 70% usage midweek due to school use, football/cricket training Football Netball Club: Approx. 700 members in 2017, up from 590 in 2013 (includes non-playing members). 75% are male, 90% are aged over 18 years. Average 20-30 hours per week In-Season use and 5-10 hours Out of Season.

Not in Council asset register

Council Approx. 650k for the recreation reserve redevelopment. Total project cost was 2.2m. Works included realigning oval, tiered seating, construction of 2 netball courts and netball pavilion, installation of lighting for oval and netball courts.

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Mansfield Junior Cricket Association Other users:

30 members (down from 50 in 2015). 95% are male and all aged under 18 years. In 'Season': 5-10 hours per week. Weekday - After 4pm 80-100% of total use. Mansfield Soccer Club Mansfield Junior Football Club Mansfield Secondary College Mansfield Primary School Auskick

4. Mansfield Recreation Reserve – Netball facilities


Netball pavilion. 2 outdoor netball courts/one with multipurpose basketball/netball rings

Mansfield Football-Netball Club (senior) Mansfield Junior Netball Club

Football Netball Club: Football/Netball Club combined membership approx. 700 members in 2017, up from 590 in 2013 (includes non-playing members). 75% are male, 90% are aged over 18 years. Average 20-30 hours per week In-Season use and 5-10 hours Out of Season. 150 (up from 110 in 2013). All aged under 18 years. 99% female. In 'Season': 20-30 hours per week. Out of 'Season': Less than 5 hours per week. Weekday - After 4pm 80-100% of total use Saturday & Sunday 10-20% of total use.


Council As above

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5. Mansfield Recreation Reserve – Skate Park


Skate park Community Informal use Not in Council asset register

Council $100,000 capital for Youth Hub (skatepark) development

6. Lords Reserve Cnr. Victoria & Apollo Streets Mansfield

Cricket oval (fenced), basic (old) clubroom and public toilets

Delatite Cricket Club Mansfield Junior Football Club Mansfield District Soccer Club Croquet Club Little Athletics Other uses:

45-55 members. 75% are male and aged over 18 years. In 'Season': 20-30 hours per week. Out of 'Season': 5-10 hours per week. 150-165 members. 90% are male. All aged under 18 years. In 'Season': 10-20 hours per week. Out of 'Season': Less than 5 hours per week. Saturday 60-80% of total use. 3 hours per week in season, approx. 80 players. 60-64 members. 73% are female and aged over 50 years. Usage: 5-10 hours per week year round. 3 hours per week in season Mansfield Primary School

Clubroom 30 years, Public toilet 20 years. Oval not in council asset register

Council manage oval, user groups manage clubroom

Nil

7. Mansfield Bowling Club

Ailsa Street Mansfield

2 greens (1 turf, 1 synthetic), lighting, clubrooms

Mansfield Bowling Club Inc

N/A Not in Council asset register

Private Nil

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8. Mansfield Golf Club

Kidston Parade Mansfield

18 hole golf course, licensed bistro & gaming

Member and public access.

452 members. 29 under the age of 18/

Unknown Private Nil

9. Mansfield Tennis Centre

Elvins Street Mansfield

10 sand-filled grass courts (4 with lighting), clubroom

Mansfield Tennis Association

175-185 members. 50% male, 50% female. 70% aged over 18 years. 35% aged over 50 years. In 'Season': 30-40 hours per week. Out of 'Season': 10-20 hours per week. Weekday - After 4pm 60-80% of total use.

25 years for club rooms and toilets

Council. User group CoM

$20,000 in the 16-17 financial year for development of All-ages development area (Hot shot Courts).

10. Mansfield Botanic Park

High Street Mansfield

Junior cricket oval (not fenced)

Junior cricket N/A Not in Council asset register

Council Nil

11. Additional Playing Fields

Reynolds Street Mansfield

Large rectangular playing surface suitable for multiple soccer fields (site partially irrigated). Joint use with MSC.

Soccer (playing fields not available for use until late 2018) MSC

N/A 430 students. 50% male, 50% female. Usage: 10-20 hours per week. Weekday - daytime 80-100% of total use.


Dept. of Education / Council

Council contribution to original development works approx. $500,000. Council contribution to rectification works $350,000.

12. Mansfield Showgrounds

Mt Battery Road Mansfield

Pavilions, arenas etc. for A&P Society show

Mansfield Agricultural & Pastoral Society Mansfield Pony Club

N/A 50 members (down from 65 in 2013). 98% are female and aged under 18


Jointly owned by private owners and Crown / CoM

Nil

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MADEC (Mansfield and District Equestrian Club) Other uses:

years. Usage less than 5 hours per week, year round. Sunday 80-100% of total use. 46 members (up from 35 in 2013). 93% are female. 98% are aged over 18 years. Usage less than 5 hours per week, year round. 20% are aged over 50 years. Sunday 60-80% of total use. Mansfield District Scouts

13. Mansfield Race Course

Mansfield-Whitfield Road, Mansfield

Racecourse, car parking, change rooms

Mansfield Racing Club

200 members (up from 90 in 2013). 60% male, 40% female. 40% aged over 18 years. 60% aged over 50 years. In 'Season': 5-10 hours per week. Out of 'Season': Less than 5 hours per week.


Crown Land / CoM

Nil

14. St Mary’s Primary School (Mercy Centre)

Malcolm St Mansfield

Indoor single court basketball stadium.

Mansfield Basketball Association, suitable for Junior use only


St Mary's Primary

Nil

15. Riffle Butts Reserve

Riffle Butts Road, Mansfield

Riflebutts Reserve for MTB. 'Home' facilities for road events is local roads, mainly Mansfield-Whitfield Road. No 'home' facilities at all for BMX.

Mansfield Mt Buller Cycling Club

139 members (up from 89 in 2014). 80% are male. 33% under 18 years. 67% over 18 years. 28% over 50 years. 10-20 hours per week, year round. Weekday - daytime 10-20% of total use. Weekday - After 4pm 60-80% of total use.


Parks Vic Nil

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Saturday 20-40% of total use. Sunday 20-40% of total use.

Other areas

16. Bonnie Doon Recreation Reserve

Zimmerman Avenue, Bonnie Doon

Sports oval, 1 netball, 1 tennis court (noncompliant size) and clubrooms.

Football, netball, tennis.

Bonnie Doon Football/Netball Club: 250 members. 37% are female. 6% are under 18 years. 94% are aged over 18 years. Tennis: 31 members (up from 18 in 2013). 70% are female. 60% are under 18 years. 30% are aged over 50 years. In 'Season': 5-10 hours per week. Out of 'Season': Less than 5 hours per week. Saturday 60-80% of total use.


Crown Land / CoM

2015-16 - Council contribution to short term netball court rectification works - approx. $10k. Netball court project management and investigation work fees paid for by Council approx. $5k. 2015 Maintenance agreement between Council and CoM $2k.

17. Tolmie Recreation Reserve

Old Tolmie Road Tolmie

Multi-purpose grassed field with concrete cricket pitch Wood-chopping area

Annual Tolmie Sports Day Tolmie Riding & Equestrian Committee Farmers Market

Annual Tolmie Sports Day Not in Council asset register

Crown Land / CoM

Nil

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2 hard surface tennis courts

Tolmie Tennis Club

18. Merton Recreation Reserve

Euroa Road, Merton

Racecourse, cricket ground

Merton Racing Club

1 race day per year. 18 years for public toilet

Crown Land / CoM

Nil

19. Jamieson Tennis Court

Perkins Street Jamieson

Concrete surface tennis court

Casual community and school use


Crown Land / CoM

Nil

20. Jamieson Recreation Reserve

Licola Road Jamieson

Sports oval, concrete cricket pitch

Social sports, school programs, community events


Crown Land / Jamieson Community Group

Nil

21. Merrijig Primary School

Mt Buller Road, Merrijig

Tennis Courts, located in school grounds

Merrijig Primary and informal community use


Merrijig Primary

Nil

22. McCormack Park

McCormack Road, Merrijig

Rodeo grounds; campdrafting.

Merrijig Campdraft Association

230-250 member. 50% male, 50% female. 80% aged over 18 years. 40% over 50 years. In 'Season': 5-10 hours per week. Out of 'Season': Less than 5 hours per week. Saturday & Sunday 80-100% of total use.


Private CoM Nil

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23. Mansfield Clay Target Club

416 Pikes Rd Mansfield

Trap and other forms of clay target shooting

Mansfield Clay Target Club

40-45 members, 90% male, 95% over 18 years, 50% over 50 years old. Usage 5-10 hours per week year round. 80% weekday (before 4pm) and Sunday use.


Private CoM Nil

24. Gough's Bay Gough's Bay Boat Club

Boating, Fishing Gough's Bay Boat Sport & Recreation Club

340 members (up from 180 in 2013). 60% male, 40% female. 70% aged over 50 years. In 'Season': 20-30 hours per week. Out of 'Season': 10-20 hours per week. Weekday - After 4pm 40-60% of total use. Saturday 20-40% of total use.


Crown Land / CoM

Nil

25. Pistol Range Quarry lane, Mansfield

Pistol range and small clubroom.

Mansfield Pistol Club

Approx. 30 shooters. Activities conducted on weekends.

Crown Land Nil

20


6. Demand Assessment In undertaking an assessment of likely future demand for sport facilities, consideration has been

given to the Strategic Context outlined in the previous section (i.e. population characteristics,

forecast growth, sport participation trends and planning influences) as well as the community

consultation results.

In addition, existing facility provision for a selection of popular sport facilities has been compared to

industry planning ratios and other similar townships. The use of ratios is not an exact science, nor is

it a one-size-fits-all approach. However in the absence of any specific industry 'authorised'

standards, the use of ratios continue to provide an effective guide to likely future sport facility

needs.

The table below identifies ratios that are commonly used across the local government industry and

compares current provision in Mansfield to two similar townships in terms of population size, ageing

community profile, regional service hubs and towns that receive seasonal or regular tourism influxes

similar to Mansfield.

Benchmark Ratio

Mansfield Kyneton Woodend

Sport facility : population

Population: 8,584 Existing actual ratio

Population: 8,923 Population 7,650

AFL Oval 1:4,500 2 1:4,292 2 2

Cricket Oval 1:3,000 3 1:2,861 3 2

Tennis courts 1:1,500 10 (4 lit) 1:858 10 (4 lit) 12 (7 lit)

Outdoor netball court

1:5,000 2 1:4,292 1 3

Indoor courts 1:7,500 1 1:8,584 2 1

Soccer 1:5,000 3 (inc MSC and Additional Fields)

1:2,861 2 0

Lawn Bowls Green

1:10,000 2 1:4,292 3 2

Aquatics 1:50,000 (indoor)

1 (outdoor) 1:8,584 1 (indoor) 1 (outdoor)

BMX track N/A 0 0 1 0

Analysis of the table highlights that with the exception of indoor courts, the level of core sport

facility provision within Mansfield is higher than benchmark ratios. The level of provision is also

directly comparable to both Kyneton and Woodend which both have similar populations and

characteristics.

Analysis reinforces that Mansfield is well serviced by existing facilities and that these generally have

the capacity to accommodate additional use, however this will require ongoing asset renewal,

refurbishment and careful management and maintenance in order to ensure all facilities are capable

of accommodating future demands for community use.

With the possible exception of indoor courts – which are operating at or near capacity - existing

sport facilities (with appropriate refurbishment or renewal) should be capable of accommodating

the community’s needs over the next ten years.

However, when coupled with an ageing community profile and changing participation preferences,

demand for activities that cater for adults and indoor activities can be expected to increase,

including non-club based, informal recreation participation opportunities.

21


7. Strategic Action Plan The Sports Facilities Strategy has been developed to build on the existing Mansfield Shire Sport and

Recreation Strategy (2014-2019) to better understand the current and likely future sport facility

needs of the community and to develop a framework for future management and resource

allocation.

Appendix 1: Sport and Recreation Management Framework outlines Council’s recommended role in

supporting sport and recreation and defines asset maintenance, development, improvement and

replacement responsibilities.

Appendix 2: Draft Funding Framework outlines a recommended approach for the assessment and

prioritisation of sport or recreation based Capital Works projects in order to assess relative priority

and outlines a number of potential external funding sources.

The following section provides a prioritised Action Plan to guide future capital resource allocation

above and beyond existing ongoing operational maintenance activities. The Action Plan outlines

potential investment of in excess of $8.6million in community sport facilities over the next ten years

– subject to availability of both internal and external funding.

Two ‘major’ sport facility projects are included as priorities in the Action Plan, specifically

development of a new multi-use sports pavilion to service Lords Oval (@ $750k) and joint

development of a new 2-court indoor sports stadium in partnership with Mansfield Secondary

College (@ $7.5mil) – both of these projects have the capacity to attract external funding and

therefore these figures do not represent the total cost to Council.

The existing facilities servicing Lords Oval are grossly inadequate, are nearing the end of their useful

asset life and fail to meet contemporary provision standards. It is recommended existing assets (i.e.

public toilets and club room) be replaced with a new shared use pavilion (i.e. single building) on the

same site. The same site is preferred as it allows for effective connection to existing services;

provides close proximity to the primary school, enhances reserve functionality and allows retirement

of outdated assets.

Development of a new 2-court sports stadium is recommended (subject to detailed feasibility study)

as the existing single court facility is at capacity. Basketball and school activities dominate existing

usage. Development of a 2-court facility will increase programming flexibility and operational

sustainability - for basketball and other sports - including freeing space at the existing single court

stadium to allow new programming options to service community needs.

The Action Plan on the following pages outlines the recommended sport facility improvement

projects over the next ten years.

Council’s Sport and Recreation Officer will play a lead role in leading the implementation of these

actions, however a collaborative approach to implementation is likely to be required depending on

specific projects, including internal and external partnerships. This includes other Council

departments, community clubs, groups, service providers and agencies of state and possibly federal

government.

Council will need to actively pursue internal and external funding opportunities to support

implementation as required. Ultimately funding and timing of implementation will be subject to

Council’s financial capacity, competing demands, partnership opportunities and availability of

22


external grants. Individual projects will be considered each year for resource allocation as part of

Council’s annual budget preparation process.

23

Ref. Facility Recommended directions Summary Rationale Priority Comment

2018/19 2019/20 2020/21 2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 Total External funding opportunities noted where

relevant

1 Mansfield

Secondary College

Undertake a feasibility study, including design concept,

site master plan and joint use agreement arrangement

with Mansfield Secondary College / Department of

Education for development of a multi-use 2-court indoor

stadium adjacent to the Additional Playing Fields

(potentially incorporate change rooms and storage

facilities to service the playing fields).

The existing single court facility is at capacity. Basketball

dominates existing usage. 2-courts will increase programming

flexibility and operational sustainability (for basketball and other

sports).

Freeing space at the existing single court stadium will allow new

programming options to service community needs.

High $40,000 $4,000,000 $3,500,000 $7,540,000 Subject to feasibility study outcomes and detailed

designs. Possible funding mix:

Council - $2-$2.3mil

DEET - $2.25mil

SRV - $3mil

2 Mansfield

Recreation Reserve

(Netball Courts)

Retain and maintain the existing facilities. No major new

works proposed.

Work with the club to address minor request, e.g. storage and

surface protection.

Additional courts are not supported having regard to site spatial

constraints and overall demand (additional use of the existing

stadium court for training may be available if a new joint use 2-

court facility established).

High $5,000 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A $5,000 Allowance for surface protection and possibly

additional storage (pending confirmation with

Netball club).

Undertake works as required as part of existing

asset maintenance programs.

3 Lords Reserve Develop a multi-use sports pavilion to service Lords

Reserve (demolish and replace existing club room and

public toilets and replace with an all new facility on the

same site) - High priority.

Upgrade/replace cricket nets - Low priority.

Existing facilities are grossly inadequate, are nearing the end of

their useful asset life and fail to meet contemporary provision

standards. Replace the existing assets with a new shared use

pavilion (i.e. single building) on the same site. The same site is

preferred as it allows for effective connection to existing services;

provides close proximity to the primary school, functionality and

allows retirement of outdated assets.

Existing cricket nets are adequate, however will require

replacement in the longer-term.

High $400,000 $350,000 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A $60,000 N/A N/A $810,000 Spread pavilion construction over two years.

Potential external funding (SRV) $300k.

Cricket net replacement in 2025/26.

4 Additional Playing

Fields

Complete establishment of the Additional Playing Fields. Soccer to be relocated to the Additional Playing Fields from Lords

Reserve.

High TBC TBC TBC TBC TBC TBC TBC TBC TBC TBC $0

5 Mansfield

Showgrounds

Improve the surface of the grass arena / oval (i.e. top

dressing, leveling).

Support club efforts for building maintenance (refer to

responsibilities in Appendix), including establishment of

joint-use facilities for the Pony Club and MADEC.

Investigate options to improve water facilities and toilet

block refurbishment.

Support female participation sports/activities. High N/A $25,000 $50,000 $50,000 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A $125,000 Allowance for arena re-surfacing, water facilities,

toilet block refurbishment and minor works to

existing buildings to allow joint use.

6 Mansfield Race

Course

Facilitate discussions with the CoM to support the Cycling

Club use of the reserve, including establishment of a BMX

track, start/finish for road racing and club room facility as

part of broader pavilion improvement works.

Work with the CoM to scope power and water (irrigation)

upgrade requirements and explore possible funding

sources.

Support facility upgrades that encourage multi-use. Cycling has a

high participation rate and adds to the diversity of opportunities

to participate in physical activities in the Shire.

High $20,000 $50,000 $15,000 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A $85,000 Allowance for BMX track, pavilion renovations

and service upgrades.



7 Riffle Butts Reserve Advocate / partner with Parks Vic to establish appropriate

public toilet and trail head facilities at Riffle Butts reserve

to support ongoing MTB use.

Riffle Butts Reserve provides a unique MTB facility servicing the

region. Appropriate support facilities and basic infrastructure is

required to support use and discourage environmental damage

from inappropriate activity.

High N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A $0 Ongoing maintenance will be required by Parks

Vic.

8 Bonnie Doon

Recreation Reserve

Support CoM efforts to implement the Strategic Plan, in

particular development of a Master Plan for the entire

reserve; tennis/netball court renewal; and ongoing

maintenance of the oval and surrounds.

Support multi-use facilities and community recreation/social hub. High $15,000 $60,000 $60,000 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A $135,000 Allowance ($15k) for contribution to

development of a Master Plan for the reserve.

Allowance ($120k) for tennis / netball court

upgrade /replacement over two financial years.



Future asset development costs to be determined

via the Master Planning process.

Mansfield Shire Sport Facilities Strategy - Action Plan Indicative Council Capital Costs - beyond existing/ongoing maintenance

24



relevant

9 Gough's Bay Sport

& Recreation Club

Consider options to improve external lighting and building

security.

Work with the club to scope facility upgrade requirements

and suitability of the project for possible external funding

(e.g. SRV, RDV), including roads, car parking and access

improvements as required.

Strong club membership. Mixed gender use. High proportion of

older age groups.

High $5,000 N/A N/A N/A $100,000 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A $105,000 Allowance for immediate security

lighting/improvements and refurbishment of

kitchen/social facilities in future years.



10 Mansfield

Swimming Pool

Retain and maintain the existing aquatic facilities for

broad community use.

Undertake modest upgrade of existing change room

facilities to help extend the asset life and improve user

amenity.

Undertake a feasibility study (and concept plan) for future

asset renewal or replacement.

Explore options with the venue operator (i.e. YMCA) to

improve play options and appeal - e.g. inflatables and

programming for youth.

Despite development of an indoor aquatic facility being identified

as a community priority in current and previous planning projects,

it is beyond the current financial capacity of the Shire to provide.

Capital development and ongoing operating costs associated with

contemporary indoor aquatic facilities are significant and

generally require catchment populations of in excess of 50,000

people to provide a level of financial return (whilst still operating

at significant ongoing cost to Councils).

Closely monitor useful asset life - Council should start planning

(i.e. establish capital reserve fund) for complete asset

replacement in the foreseeable future (e.g. 10-15 years). Future

replacement will need to consider contemporary aquatic facility

needs (e.g. warm water, indoor) having regard to the

organisations financial capacity to develop and operate.

Medium $20,000 $20,000 $20,000 $20,000 $120,000 $25,000 $25,000 $25,000 $75,000 $25,000 $375,000 Based on existing average annual maintenance

costs.

Allowance ($100k) for change room renewal in 5-

years, plus allowance ($50k) for new facility

planning commencing in 2026.

11 Lords Reserve Install lights for sports training - Medium priority. Training lights will help spread wear and tear from the main

recreation reserve. As a winter sport, opportunities for club

training are limited without lighting.

Medium N/A N/A N/A N/A $40,000 $40,000 N/A N/A N/A N/A $80,000 Allowance for training lights.

12 McCormack Park Work with the Campdraft Association to scope options for

power upgrade and basic amenities provision.

Explore possible external funding support.

Ensure the access road is included on Council's

maintenance program and consider additional service

before and after major events.

Strong club membership and profile (age and gender).

Equestrian activities remain popular in the Shire.

Ensure there are appropriate legal arrangements (e.g. lease,

license) securing appropriate tenure/access to the site for

ongoing use for rodeo and campdrafting prior to considering

asset development or financial support on private land.

Medium N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A $15,000 $15,000 N/A N/A N/A $30,000 Allowance for contribution to power and toilet

provision.



13 Mansfield Tennis

Centre

Retain and maintain the existing facilities.

Establish Hot-Shots Court area.

Upgrade/formalise car parking - Low priority.

Upgrade toilets / amenities - Medium/Low priority.

Despite changing participation preferences, tennis remains a

popular sport for both males and females in the Shire and is

suitable for all ages. Existing toilets/amenities are ageing and

require refurbishment to meet contemporary expectations and

standards.

Low N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A $100,000 $50,000 N/A N/A $150,000 Allowance for amenities and car parking

refurbishment.

14 Mansfield Clay

Target Club

The club advised that they have recently received a Govt.

grant of $20,000 to undertake a number of small

improvements.

Council to meet with the club to confirm future priorities

for possible Council support - including encouraging

participation.

Shooting sports remain popular within the Shire, particularly for

older males - thereby providing an avenue for ongoing

involvement in community sport.

Ensure there are appropriate legal arrangements (e.g. lease,

license) securing appropriate tenure/access to the site for

ongoing use for shooting club activities prior to considering asset

development or financial support on private land.

Low N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A $10,000 $10,000 N/A $20,000 Allowance to support facility improvements.



15 Mansfield Sports

Complex

Retain and maintain the existing sports complex for multi-

purpose use.

Facility is suited to servicing the ageing population profile and

changing participation preferences (i.e. indoor activities, less

formal sport).

Ongoing $20,000 $20,000 $20,000 $20,000 $20,000 $25,000 $25,000 $25,000 $25,000 $25,000 $225,000 Based on existing average annual maintenance

costs.

16 Mansfield Sports

Complex

(Gymnastics)

Pending outcomes from the feasibility study, relocate

basketball to a new joint-use 2-court facility, thereby

increasing flexibility for alternative uses and programming

of the existing stadium (including gymnastics).

Consideration could be given to including a dedicated space for

gymnastics at the new stadium, however gymnastics usage is

currently fairly low (i.e. 65 members, approx. 2.5 hours per week)

and unlikely to increase significantly associated with population

growth or demographic profile of the community. Therefore it is

recommended that gymnastics remain at the existing Sporting

Complex and continue to share space with other activity

programming.

Ongoing N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A It is acknowledged that packing up and setting up

equipment can be a constraint to further usage

and programming options at the existing shared

use venue.

Indicative Council Capital Costs - beyond existing/ongoing maintenance

25



relevant

17 Mansfield

Recreation Reserve

(Social and Change

Rooms)


works proposed during the life of this strategy.

Redevelopment/renewal of the social room and change rooms

are not considered a financial priority for Council contribution

during the life of this plan (i.e. investment is required in other

facilities to service community needs having regard to Council's

overall financial capacity).

Ongoing N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Undertake works as required as part of existing


Planning consideration could be given to joint

use/development of future aquatic facilities and

recreation reserve social rooms and change

rooms as part of a single consolidated facility on

the site in the future (i.e. consider as part of

future Aquatic Facility Master Planning/Feasibility

study included above).

18 Mansfield Bowling

Club

No works proposed. Provide Club development and training support as required. Ongoing N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Undertake works as required as part of existing


19 Mansfield Golf Club No works proposed. Provide Club development and training support as required. Ongoing N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Undertake works as required as part of existing


20 Mansfield Botanic

Park


works proposed.

Provide Club development and training support as required. Ongoing N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Undertake works as required as part of existing


21 Tolmie Recreation

Reserve

No works proposed.

Provide support to the CoM for the Annual Sports Day as

required.



22 Merton Recreation

Reserve


works proposed.



23 Jamieson Tennis

Court


works proposed.



24 Jamieson

Recreation Reserve


works proposed.



25 Mansfield

Recreation Reserve


works proposed.



$525,000 $525,000 $4,165,000 $3,590,000 $280,000 $105,000 $165,000 $170,000 $110,000 $50,000 $9,685,000

Indicative Council Capital Costs - beyond existing/ongoing maintenance

26


8. Appendices The following appendices are included:

Appendix 1: Sport and Recreation Management Framework

o Outlines capital development, improvement and replacement responsibilities.

o Defines maintenance responsibilities for sports facilities and playing fields.

Appendix 2: Draft Funding Framework

o Outlines Council’s approach for the assessment and prioritisation of sport or recreation

based Capital Works projects and potential external funding sources.

Appendix 3: Priority Project Indicative Concepts

o Illustrative concepts to be developed – confirmation of functional brief required.

27


Appendix 1: Sport and Recreation Management Framework The following appendix outlines a management framework to guide Council’s future involvement in

sport and recreation facility, infrastructure and service provision.

Infrastructure Development and Maintenance Guide The following section has been developed as a template to guide Council service levels and

responsibilities for sport and recreation facility management having regard to industry best practice

and the realistic capacity of key stakeholders, community groups and reserve users.

The guide recognises that there are shared responsibilities between Council and the community for

the development and maintenance of sporting and recreation facilities.

The guide also assists to enhance positive user attitudes, responsibility and ownership towards

publicly-owned sport facilities, especially where users have contributed to their development and

maintenance.

The service guide applies to all publicly-owned sporting and recreation facilities or spaces located

within Mansfield Shire, including outdoor facilities, playing surfaces (ovals, courts, greens), buildings,

other supporting infrastructure (car parks, flood lights, fences, etc.) and the open space areas within

or immediately surrounding the designated sport or recreation facility.

The following statements provide a framework, or context, for the establishment and application of

the Infrastructure Development and Maintenance Guide.

i. Council acknowledges that it has a responsibility for the provision of core infrastructure

at public recreation reserves that supports community participation in a range of sports

and physical activities. In this context, core responsibility areas relate to the playing

surface/area, change amenities and safe access to/from the facility.

ii. Council will aim to maintain playing surfaces to a level commensurate with the level of

competition that the user group(s) participates in, and the level of use that the ground

receives.

iii. Sporting and recreation facilities will have a basic range of infrastructure suitable for a

sport to be played at the level consistent with local sport association requirements or

relevant standards.

iv. All new (or modified) sporting and recreation facilities will incorporate Universal Design

Principles.

v. Council recognises the value of - and may provide incentives for - user group

contributions to the capital development of facilities, the maintenance of facilities, and

the periodic replacement of playing surfaces over the asset lifecycle.

vi. User groups will generally be expected to (at least partially) finance any approved

Capital Works designed primarily for the clubs to raise revenue as a result of that

infrastructure. Examples may include reserve perimeter fences (for the purpose of

charging a ground admittance), advertising or sponsor signage, extensions to canteens

beyond basic robust kitchen facilities or the development or upgrade of club social

areas.

vii. Council will enhance the long term viability of sports facilities (and user groups), by

ensuring that:

28


o Clubs do not over-capitalise on developments.

o Clubs are able to demonstrate a sound history of fiscal responsibility and provide

evidence of appropriate financial planning prior to approval being granted for large

capital improvement projects.

o Facilities are located and designed in order to maximise opportunities for broad

community use where appropriate to do so.

o Facilities are developed and maintained in a safe state.

viii. Clubs undertaking minor maintenance works must comply with relevant building codes

and regulations.

ix. Prior to commencement of any significant capital improvement projects, user groups

will require written approval/support from all other regular users of the reserve/facility

and from Council.

x. The responsibility of curating turf cricket wickets and practice pitches (where available)

will be the sole responsibility of the user group, and shall be undertaken in accordance

with relevant industry guidelines.

xi. Council may choose to close any sports field as a result of wet weather or hard surfaces

(or for other safety reasons) if damage to the ground or injury is likely to occur as a

result of use, and/or if additional cost will be incurred by Council by that use.

xii. Floodlights will be approved (subject to Town Planning approval) where an increase in

sports participation is likely to result and/or to minimise risk of injury through improved

management of the use of playing fields.

The following table identifies infrastructure items and the group(s) with the whole or partial

responsibility for their initial provision, and for their subsequent development and improvement.

The capacity of Council to deliver its infrastructure components will be dependent upon annual

budget allocations.

As such, Council will place a priority on meeting its obligations to provide basic sporting and

recreation infrastructure as outlined below – “Council only” before assisting with “Shared” or “User

Group” responsibilities.

For infrastructure where Council has no whole or partial responsibility for its provision or funding,

Council may support an application by a user group to an external funding source where there will

be demonstrable community benefits.

General conditions for all development projects:

No fixtures, alterations or additions may be made to any part of a pavilion, playing surface or

surrounding open space without written consent of Council.

All works and improvements to any part of a pavilion, playing surface or surrounding open space

must be authorised in writing by Council.

29


Capital Development, Improvement and Replacement Responsibilities

Infrastructure Component Council Only User Group

Responsibility Shared Responsibility

Pavilion and surrounds

Player change rooms, toilets, showers

Basic provision as determined by Council having regard to industry standards

Additions / extensions

Social Rooms

Additions / extensions

Club contributions encouraged

Canteen & Equipment

Basic provision of facility (not equipment) as determined by Council

Equipment and consumables

Meeting Room

Council may contribute where general community usage may be applicable

Office

Umpires/Referees change room (provision for males/females)

Basic provision as determined by Council

Additions

Storage room

Basic provision as determined by Council

Beyond basic provision

Covered area for spectators

Basic provision to be included in design as determined by Council

Public toilets

Reserve fencing

As determined by Council

In circumstances where tenant club is sole beneficiary of works

In circumstances where personal safety is a consideration, e.g. roads

Access paths and car parking

Playing Area

Sports fields (includes basic sub-surface irrigation and drainage infrastructure)

Centre cricket pitch

For new cricket oval developments

Surface replacement

As determined by Council, e.g. renewal, relocation, extension

Cricket practice nets

30


Infrastructure Component Council Only User Group

Responsibility Shared Responsibility

Perimeter fencing on sports fields

For new oval developments as determined by Council

For existing ovals where a fence is required by a club

Replacement of existing fences as determined by Council.

Scoreboard

Initial basic level of provision

Asset upgrade and renewal

Coaches boxes

For new playing field developments as determined by Council

Maintenance and renewal of existing

Goal posts/nets

For new playing field developments as determined by Council

Maintenance and replacement as required

Goal post padding as required.

Tennis courts/netball association courts (i.e. that hold weekly multi-club competition)

New courts as determined by Council

Maintenance and renewal

Flood lighting – training standard

New multi-use locations

Upgrades to meet recommended standards

Flood lighting – competition standard

Council may consider a contribution where broad community benefit is achieved

Outdoor netball courts at football grounds

As determined by Council

Additional courts, or conversion to synthetic surface

Equestrian Facilities

Jumps and arena, etc.

Basic club room and secure storage facilities

All other sporting facilities

Considered on a case by case basis

31


Delineation of Responsibilities for the Maintenance of Sports Infrastructure

The following table clarifies and refines existing maintenance responsibilities for sporting and

recreation infrastructure and equipment. Council’s responsibilities are subject to resource and

program allocations.

A general condition for all maintenance projects is that no fixtures, alterations or additions may be

made to any part of a pavilion, playing surface or surrounding open space without written consent of

Council.

Sports Pavilions - Club Rooms & Change Rooms

ITEM COUNCIL RESPONSIBILITY USER GROUP RESPONSIBILITY

ELECTRICAL ** Any works undertaken must have written Council approval prior to works beginning and be

carried out by a qualified contractor

Electric wiring and fittings in

building All building wiring from the main supply

to and including the switchboard

No responsibility

Light fittings and globes Repair or replace faulty fittings Keep clean

Replace globes/lamps (energy efficient

‘bulbs’ recommended)

Cost of repairs if damage caused by misuse

Cost of any additional light fittings required

by group

Ceiling fans No responsibility Purchase, maintenance, installation, repair

and replacement costs

Exhaust fans Initial installation of basic equipment

only

Keep clean and maintain in operable

condition

Cost of repair and replacement as required

Power Points Repair or replace faulty power points Cost of any additional power points

required by group

Tag & Testing of non-

hardwired electrical equipment No responsibility Tag & Testing as per legislation by a

licensed contractor

PLUMBING** Any works undertaken must have written Council approval prior to works beginning and be

carried out by a qualified contractor

Internal toilets Installation, maintenance, repair and

replacement costs due to unit age or

fault

Internal repairs due to misuse


condition

Supply toilet paper

Plumbing and fixtures,

including hot water services Major maintenance

Repair or replacement due to item age

or fault

Internal repairs due to misuse, includes

shower drains blocked by dirt, grass

clippings and other debris

All costs associated with additional fixtures

not standard within the building

ESSENTIAL SERVICES

Fire Extinguishers, hydrants

and hose reels Initial installation and servicing Cost of replacement due to misuse

Emergency and exit lighting Installation, maintenance, repair and

replacement costs

Report any faults to Council

32



Essential Services

(incl. smoke alarms, fire exit

doors)

Maintenance of essential safety

measures to an operational level

Ensure emergency floor plans are

current

Induction of facility users

Ensure emergency floor plans are visible at

all times

SECURITY

External Locks and Keys Require access to the building

Require access to electrical switchboard

and meter boxes

Purchase, installation, maintenance, repair


Cost of additional and replacement of lost

keys

Ensure Council is provided a key to access

the building, switchboard and meter boxes

Any change to external locks/ door

hardware must be approved in writing by

Council prior to works to ensure that

Building Code requirements are met

Security System No responsibility Purchase, installation, service and

maintenance

Key or PIN number must be supplied to

Council

Security lighting around

pavilion Initial installation in new ore

redeveloped facilities

Maintenance, repair or replacement due

to age or structural fault

Cost of any enhancements

Vandalism (internal) No responsibility except where damage

exceeds Council’s excess (approx.

$3000). Council to submit claim

Cost of all repairs up to Council’s insurance

excess

Vandalism (external) Structural repairs Maintenance, cleaning and painting as

required

BUILDING FABRIC

Windows Major structural maintenance

Repair or replacement due to item age

or fault

Keep clean

Repairs due to misuse

Painting of ceilings, walls and

other surfaces Initial painting as part of pavilion

construction

External painting

Internal painting

Ceilings Major structural maintenance Repairs due to misuse

Doors

Major structural maintenance (excluding

cupboard doors and fittings)

Maintenance, repair and replacement of

all external doors

Replacement of all internal doors due to

age

Regular cleaning and repair due to misuse

Maintenance and repair of all internal

doors including cupboard and storeroom

doors

Any change to external locks/ door

hardware must be approved in writing by

Council prior to works to ensure that

Building Code requirements are met

Floor surfaces and coverings Initial installation of floor covering as

part of pavilion construction

Major structural maintenance

Any repair, maintenance, upgrade and

replacement costs subject to Council

approval

33



Roofs All maintenance and repair costs No responsibility

Skylights Maintenance, repair or replacement due


Repair if damaged through misuse

Guttering Maintenance, repair or replacement due


No responsibility

External & internal walls Structural maintenance

External painting

Regular cleaning

Internal repainting as required

Repair if damaged through misuse

Building alterations Assessing all requests and if approved,

ensuring satisfactory completion of

work, even when totally funded by the

user group

Scope and document the specific

requirements of project associated with

building or facility alterations

Seek Council approval

INTERNAL FITTINGS

Window coverings No responsibility Purchase, installation, cleaning, repair and

replacement

Heating /Cooling fixtures Initial installation as part of capital

development or major renewal

Installation of additional (or new) heating

or cooling

Repair, replacement and maintenance

costs including annual inspections

Payment of all running costs

Other permanent fixtures Initial installation of basic equipment as


Regular cleaning of all fixtures and

repair/replacement

CANTEEN / KITCHENS (where applicable)

Food handling areas Initial installation of basic cupboards,

sink and bench tops as part of pavilion

construction

Keep clean and maintain in accordance

with the Health Act

Upgrade and replacement costs

Stoves and cooking equipment Initial installation of basic equipment as



condition

Repairs, maintenance, upgrade and

replacement costs

Refrigerators and dishwashers No responsibility Purchase, installation, repair, replacement

and maintenance costs

UTILITIES

Water Initial installation of water supply as part

of pavilion construction

Any required maintenance, repair,

replacement or upgrade to the facilities

water supply

All usage and supply costs

Electrical Initial installation of electrical supply as




electrical supply (including main

switchboard)


Gas Initial installation of gas supply as part of

pavilion construction


34





gas supply

Telephone and

communications No responsibility

All installation, connection, maintenance,

repair, replacement, upgrade and

usage/equipment costs

Rubbish

(within Council garbage

collection district)

Weekly emptying of reserve rubbish bins

as part of Council’s waste services

Picking up of rubbish around the pavilion

and reserve

Putting out bins for collection

All costs associated with garbage collection

including any additional bins

Rubbish

(outside Council garbage

collection district)

No responsibility Picking up of rubbish around the pavilion

and reserve

Removal of all rubbish


OTHER

Pavilion cleaning No responsibility Regular cleaning of the facility including all

associated costs

Covered areas for spectators –

attached to building Maintenance responsibility as per rest of

building

Cleaning

Signage Install, maintain and replace all essential

signage

Install, maintain and replace all Council

branded signage

Seek Council approval before installation of

signage

Install, maintain and replace all Club

branded signage

Pest Control All structural pest control i.e.: termites All other pest control as required

i.e.: mice, spiders, wasps etc.

Other equipment / facilities

added to pavilion by a Group

(incl. furniture)

No responsibility All maintenance, repair and replacement

costs

Insurance of equipment and contents

No Smoking Advise user groups of Council’s No

Smoking Policy

Ensure no smoking occurs in the building or

within 5m of any doorway or window

Notes:

Misuse: Use incorrectly, mistreat or abuse.

Working at Height: Club are not permitted to undertake any works above 2.1 meters without

meeting the appropriate OH&S requirements.

Approval: No work may begin until written approval has been received from Council.

Qualified trades: Any approved works undertaken must be carried out by a suitably qualified

contractor approved by Council.

Asset maintenance: If Clubs allow any installations to deteriorate to a condition that is a danger

to the community or is inappropriate for a built structure in a Council reserve, it will be removed

by Council and the Club will be charged accordingly.

35


OVAL AND GENERAL RESERVE


SPORTING OVAL

Oval fencing Fences around playing surface

Preference for black powder coated

cyclone fences

Major and minor maintenance where

funds allow

Undertake regular inspection of oval

fencing during season

Report any major structural damage to

Council

Damage caused by misuse

Fencing around reserve

Sponsorship signage Approval of location and type Seek Council approval before installation

Purchase, maintenance, repair and

replacement costs

Costs for installation and removal

Coaches boxes Approval of location and design Maintenance, repair and replacement costs

Scoreboards Approval or location and design Seek Council approval before installation



All utility costs where applicable

Goal posts / goals No responsibility Purchase, installation, maintenance, repair


Netting behind goals No responsibility Purchase, installation, maintenance, repair


Cricket pitches – covering and

uncovering Covering and uncovering of the pitches

between seasons

Notify Council of the end/start of their

season

Levelling of soil during the season and

matches to maintain safety

Storage of covers at Council approved

location

Synthetic cricket pitches Installation and removal of rubber fleck

required for all season synthetic covers

Purchase, installation of pitch/cover,

maintenance, repair and replacement costs

Turf cricket pitches No responsibility All maintenance, including shaving of turf

tables if required

Ground lighting and poles

Some assistance with funding first set of

training lights

Some assistance with funding upgraded

set of training lights

No maintenance responsibility


and upgrade costs. Any works are to have

prior written approval from Council and be

undertaken by professional contractors in

accordance with all legislation and Council

requirements.

All utility costs

Any structural concerns or cracking should

be reported to Council immediately

Oval playing surface Grass cutting – to support playability

Turf restoration works

Top dressing

Weed control

Sports Ground Suitability Checks at the

beginning of the Summer and Winter

sports seasons

Undertake inspection of playing surface

before each use

Report any safety issues to Council

In partnership with Council preserve the

oval playing surface during periods of

extreme weather conditions

36



Additional mowing or maintenance to

improve playing surface

Ensure no vehicles (other than emergency

vehicles) are permitted on the playing area

unless prior permission is obtained from

Council

Irrigation & drainage Installation, upgrade, repairs and

maintenance

Operation of irrigation system

Report any malfunctions to Council

immediately

Line marking of sports field No responsibility Purchase and application (suitable non-

toxic, non-permanent materials only)

RESERVE GROUNDS (Area surrounding Oval)

Landscaping Develop, install and maintain Club / community projects to improve

general amenity – subject to Council

approval

Grass Cutting Basic maintenance to support amenity

and safety

Additional grass cutting

Pathways Develop, install and maintain No responsibility

Trees Tree inspections

Any tree works as required

Report any dangerous trees to Council

Rubbish Weekly emptying of reserve rubbish bins

as part of Council’s service contract

Picking up of rubbish around the pavilion

and reserve

Putting out bins for collection


including any additional bins

Reserve roads and car parks Development, upgrade, repairs and

maintenance

Reporting maintenance issues to Council

Public toilets Cleaning of public toilets as part of

Council service schedule

Development, upgrade, repairs and

maintenance

Club to advise Council of any additional

requirements due to large crowds –

additional cleaning may be required

HARD COURTS (Tennis, Netball, Basketball)

Hard courts Consideration of assistance with funding

initial development of courts, surface

upgrade and repair of structural defects

Seek Council approval for development of

any new courts or upgrade of existing court

Installation, maintenance, repair,

resurfacing and upgrade costs

Inspect and sweep court surface before use

Coaches boxes Initial installation as part of capital

development

Maintenance, repair and renewal as

required

Scoreboards No responsibility Seek Council approval before installation



All utility costs where applicable

Goal posts / nets Initial installation as part of capital

development

Maintenance, repair and renewal as

required

37



Netting behind goals Initial installation as part of capital

development – if considered necessary

for public safety


and renewal as required

Sponsorship signage Approval of location and type Seek Council approval before installation

Purchase, maintenance, repair and

replacement costs

Costs for installation and removal as

required

Court lighting

Initial installation as part of capital

development

Maintenance, repair and upgrade as

required.

All utility costs

Any structural concerns or cracking should

be reported to Council immediately

OTHER ASSOCIATEDSPORTING FACILITIES

Cricket practice nets Approval of location and design

Some assistance with funding initial

installation

Seek Council approval before development


and renewal as required

Other equipment / facilities

added to the reserve grounds

by a group

No responsibility All maintenance, repair and renewal as

required

Insurance of equipment and contents

Notes:

Misuse: Use incorrectly, mistreat or abuse.

Working at Height: Club are not permitted to undertake any works above 2.1 meters without

meeting the appropriate OH&S requirements.

Approval: No work may begin until written approval has been received from Council.

Qualified trades: Any approved works undertaken must be carried out by a suitably qualified

contractor approved by Council.

Asset maintenance: If Clubs allow any installations to deteriorate to a condition that is a danger

to the community or is inappropriate for a built structure in a Council reserve, it will be removed

by Council and the Club will be charged accordingly.

38


Appendix 2: Draft Funding Framework

Introduction / Purpose The Sport and Recreation Facility Development Funding Framework has been established to provide

a strategic and transparent approach for the assessment and prioritisation of sport or recreation

based Capital Works projects either generated internally or submitted to Council for consideration

by a club, community group, Councillor or other means.

Requests for Capital Works will be reviewed, evaluated, prioritised and implemented having regard

to the criteria outlined below and Council’s long-term strategic goals, operational requirements and

overall financial capacity.

Definitions 1. Capital Works for Council-owned assets with a Council contribution >$5,000:

o Purchase or construction of new assets.

o Capital renewal of existing assets which increases the service potential or extends the

life of an asset.

o Capital expansion which extends the standard and service capability of an existing asset.

2. Capital Works for Non Council-owned asset with a Council contribution >$5,000:

o Contribution to another organisation’s (public or private) capital project, where such a

project provides tangible benefits to the Mansfield Shire community.

Scope This funding framework will apply to all requests for Council funds required to partially or wholly

fund Capital Works projects (as defined above) to create, establish or improve sport and recreation

facilities or spaces, including open space areas, recreational or sporting buildings, sports playing

areas and associated infrastructure.

Requests for Capital Works Projects Requests for projects to be considered for inclusion in Council’s Capital Works Program may be

generated by one of the following ways:

By resolution of Council.

From a Councillor.

Internally from Council based on recommendations or principles outlined in adopted planning

documents.

From the community, either by a resident or by a community organisation.

As a result of mutually beneficial partnerships or funding opportunities.

Preliminary Review

All submissions will be initially reviewed to establish whether a project proposal:

Is a Mansfield Shire Council responsibility.

Is consistent with the definition of a Capital Works project.

Formal Review of Eligible Submissions

Eligible projects will be reviewed and prioritised by Council’s Recreation Office (or equivalent) and

relevant senior management using the following evaluation criteria and weightings.

39


1. Fit with Endorsed Corporate Planning Strategies and Reports 25%

Does the project help Council achieve its Vision?

Is the project consistent with the Vision, Objectives and Principles outlined in the Sport

Facilities Strategy (2017)?

Is the specific project identified in an endorsed Strategy, Master Plan or other relevant

Council document, and what is its priority?

Will the project enhance operational efficiency and sustainability?

Is the project a responsibility of Council?

2. Participation / Involvement 25%

Will the project improve opportunities for residents to increase participation in physical

activity?

Will the project allow additional participation programming or activities to be undertaken?

Will the project increase opportunities for complementary multi-use?

Will the project improve opportunities for participation in governance, management or

involvement in sporting clubs or community groups?

Will the project increase the capacity for spectators and other non-player/participants (i.e.

contribute to social and community development benefits)?

Will the project cater for disadvantaged groups and/or target groups including females,

juniors and older adults?

3. Identified Need 25%

Is there evidence of community demand?

Is there evidence of a facility gap that the project addresses?

Does the project address issues of safety, risk management, Universal Design Principles

and/or Environmentally Sustainable Design?

Does the project maximise opportunities for multi-use, including by women, girls and older

adults?

Are there other community or private facilities nearby that could satisfy the identified need?

Will the project add value to existing facilities and improve the capacity to address identified

demands?

4. Financial Issues 15%

Is external funding committed, or is the likelihood of attracting future external funding high,

including government and non-government sources?

What is the cost/benefit of the project having regard to recurrent income, expenditure and

ongoing operational costs to Council?

Does an economic analysis of the project confirm viability (where applicable)?

What impact will the project have on the life of an asset?

What impact will the project have on ongoing maintenance obligations for Council and

community groups?

Does the project demonstrate adequate planning/consideration for eventual asset renewal

and lifecycle replacement?

Have any significant project risks been identified?

40


What is the funding mix for the project? Does the project maximise leveraging opportunities

in the funding mix, including community contributions?

5. Urgency 10%

Is the project urgent due to contractual, safety or legislative requirements?

Will the project satisfy a government initiative or attract external support funding?

Is there an existing Council commitment to the project?

Does the project respond to environmental considerations or a natural disaster?

Potential Funding At the conclusion of the formal review process, a priority listing of all potential projects will be

established. Priority projects (based on the assessment results) will be considered for possible

external funding opportunities including the State Government Sport and Recreation Victoria (SRV)

annual Community Sports Infrastructure Fund (or equivalent).

The remaining projects and their priority order will be referred to Council’s annual budget process

for consideration for inclusion in Council’s annual Capital Works Program.

41


Appendix 3: Priority Project Indicative Concepts High level schematic concept plans have been developed for the recommended pavilion/change

rooms at Lords Reserve – allowing potential staging of construction if required – and proposed two-

court stadium in collaboration with Mansfield Secondary College.

The concept plans are indicative / illustrative only with the primary purpose of supporting possible

external funding applications. More detailed site and facility specific planning will be required prior

to implementation.

Costs for construction of the stadium has been estimated at approximately $6.58mil, however this

excludes car parking, landscaping, external security lighting or escalation beyond 12 months.

Completed construction is not likely until at least 2022, therefore a total project cost of $7.5million is

included in the Action Plan.

Lords Pavilion has been costed in two stages in line with the indicative concept design. Initial cost

estimates have been provided for each stage based on traditional on-site commercial construction.

The indicative costs are $754,000 for stage one (i.e. change rooms and amenities) and $664,000 for

stage two (i.e. social/club rooms). The Action Plan includes an allowance of $750,000 for Lords

Pavilion as a high priority item. Future stages will be subject to available funding and/or

opportunities to deliver the project at a lower cost.

Recent industry experience from other LGA’s (e.g. City of Moreland) has seen success in the use of

modular, pre-fabricated sport pavilions and change room facilities being delivered for significantly

lower cost than traditional building approaches (i.e. 50-60% lower cost). Council may wish to further

investigate the possible use of modular construction options for the proposed facilities at Lords

Reserve. Such facilities have been shown to meet community need in the City of Moreland without

compromising on quality, functionality and asset life (i.e. buildings reportedly come with a 30

guarantee).

42

141 BURNLEY STREET, RICHMONDI N F O @ M A N T R I C . C O M . A UP : 0 3 9 4 2 1 6 2 6 6

WWW.MANTRIC.COM.AU

MANSFIELD SECONDARY COLLEGEOPTION 2a

1 : 5 0 0 @ A 3 . 1 3 M A R C H 2 0 1 8

3 4 7 C O P Y R I G H TF S - 1 1

0 ?? ?? ??

Stadium Stage 2

Hard Courts

Residential

Future Public Carpark

Change RoomsApprox. 120m2

Acc.Foyer

FA

Store65m2

Future Gym

AdminClnSt.

Entry

School Alternate Entry

Seating blocks indicated would suit 200 seat demand

43

Mansfield Secondary College(For Discussion)Mansfield Secondary College - Indoor Stadium

Preliminary - Opinion of Probable Cost

Preliminary Areas Analysis

AREA RATE ALLOWANCE

ZONE 1 128.00 $3,000.00 $384,000.00

ZONE 2 88.00 $2,500.00 $220,000.00

ZONE 3 2,042.00 $1,800.00 $3,675,600.00

ZONE 4 0.00 $2,800.00 $0.00

ZONE 5 SPARE 0.00 $0.00 $0.00

ZONE 6 14.00 $2,800.00 $39,200.00

Wall Grossing 113.60 $2,800.00 $318,080.00

Circulation 43.00 $2,800.00 $120,400.00

Sub-Total 2,428.60 $4,757,280.00 Rate : $1,958.86

Demolition $0.00

Car Parking (?? Spaces) allow $0.00

Covered Spetator Area 0 $750.00 $0.00

Mech plant platforms 45 $750.00 $33,750.00

Landscaping $0.00

Audio Visual Equip $5,000.00

Furniture & Equip $25,000.00

Lift & Stairs (Optional) If req'd?

Site Service $100,000.00

Authority $10,000.00

Sub-total $173,750.00

Design Contingency (5%) $246,551.50

Professional Fees (12%) $591,723.60

Construction Contingency (10%) $493,103.00

Escalation (12 month only 3%) $183,409.74

ESD Allowance (3%) $142,718.40

Construction Total $6,588,536.24 Rate : $2,712.89

Exclusions:

GST Demolition

Bored Piers & piles Hazardous Material Removal

Retaining wall Contaminated Soil

Up-grade to site service

Works beyond site

Qualification

The above opinion of probable cost has been prepared for initial discussion and budgetting only.

Further investigation and design analysis is required to verify this opinion. Verification should be

undertaken by a suitably qualified Quantity Surveyor.

28-May-18

44


WWW.MANTRIC.COM.AU

LORDS PAVILIONOPTION 3 Stage 1

1 : 4 0 0 @ A 3 . 8 M A R C H 2 0 1 8

2 0 1 C O P Y R I G H TF S - 0 3 . 1

0 ?? ?? ??

8sq

mP

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cc

WC

20sq

mA

men

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55sq

mC

han

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55sq

mC

han

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20sq

mA

men

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1

8sq

m

Acc

Chan

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45


WWW.MANTRIC.COM.AU

LORDS PAVILIONOPTION 3 Stage 2

1 : 4 0 0 @ A 3 . 8 M A R C H 2 0 1 8

2 0 1 C O P Y R I G H TF S - 0 3 . 2

0 ?? ?? ??

8sq

mP

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cc

WC

20sq

mA

men

ity 2

55sq

mC

han

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55sq

mC

han

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20sq

mA

men

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1

8sq

m

Acc

Chan

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28sq

mK

iosk

103sq

mS

ocial

3sq

mW

C2

3sq

mW

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15sq

mFirst A

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13sq

mR

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4sq

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13sq

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10sq

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18sq

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Service

cupbo

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46

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Draft Report V4, December 2017

Sport Facilities Strategy Background Research Report

48

PAGE

2

© Insight Leisure Planning 2017

Sport Facilities Strategy Background Research Report Mansfield Shire Council

Contents

Community Survey Results ..................................................................................................................... 3

Sports Club Survey Results .................................................................................................................... 12

Consultation Notes ............................................................................................................................... 25

Public Submissions: ................................................................................................................................. 25

Background Documents: ....................................................................................................................... 28

Demographic Characteristics and Profile .............................................................................................. 35

Industry Trends ..................................................................................................................................... 37

Financial Capacity ................................................................................................................................. 41

Demand Assessment / Needs Analysis ................................................................................................. 43

49

PAGE

3



Community Survey Results Q1: The majority of the 159 respondents identified as a member of an existing sport or recreation club

in the Shire (i.e. 76.3% Yes; 23.7% No).

The most common clubs identified included Netball clubs 25.42%, Mansfield Tennis 15.25%, Delatite

Cricket Club 11.02%, Basketball clubs 10.17%, and the Mansfield District Equestrian Club 8.47%.

76.3%

23.7%

Are you currently a member of any specific sport or recreation clubs/groups based in Mansfield Shire?

Yes

No

50

PAGE

4



Q2: The majority of survey respondents regularly participate in sport and recreation activities (i.e.

83.6%)

Q3: Respondents identified more than 35 different sports and activities that they regularly patriciate in.

This reflects a good level of diversity and opportunities available in the Shire – many of which reflect the

geographic characteristics of the Shire, for example snow sports, hiking, fishing, mountain walking and

equestrian activities.

The top 20 most common activities are identified below. Around half of the activities are club-based

organised sports – including tennis, netball, AFL football, basketball and golf as popular examples -

however the most popular activities overall reflect a preference for casual and informal participation

opportunities, which is consistent with State and National trends, in particular the popularity of walking

and cycling.

83.6%

16.4%

Do you regularly participate in any sport or recreation activities in the Shire?

Yes

No

51

PAGE

5



52

PAGE

6



Q4: A lack of facilities was identified as a key reason for non-participation in sport and recreation

activities across the Shire (i.e. 39.66% of respondents). The poor standard of existing facilities was

identified by a further 10.34% of respondents – therefore half of all respondents identified facilities as a

major constraint to participation.

Other reasons reflect industry trends, including lack of time, age and lack of motivation. Distances and

affordability were also identified by a number of respondents (i.e. 13.79% and 10.34% respectively).

53

PAGE

7



Q5: There is very strong support for the provision of quality sport and recreation facilities from the

survey respondents – over 95% identified them as extremely important or important. Only three

individual responses suggested that quality facilities were not important.

Q6: The areas/activities where Council’s performance rated most highly (i.e. Good, Very good or

Excellent) included:

Provision of sport and recreation facilities and infrastructure (72.5%).

Sports field and court maintenance (72.7%).

Supporting local sporting clubs and recreation groups (62.9%).


Areas/activities where Council’s performance rated most poorly (i.e. Poor or Very poor) included:

Developing new sport and recreation facilities (50.3%).

Providing a diverse range of sport and recreation facilities (36.6%).


Pavilion, club rooms and building maintenance (29.1%).

54

PAGE

8



55

PAGE

9



Q7: Approximately 42.1% of respondents indicated that existing sport and recreation facilities usually or

always meet their needs. However, slightly over one quarter of respondents (27.1%) suggested that

facilities seldom or never meet their needs.

Q8: Respondents were asked to suggest priorities for Council in relation to current and future sport and

recreation facilities. This was an open ended question which attracted considerable feedback. The most

common suggested priorities included:

Facility improvements – upgrade, retain and refurbish existing facilities as well as create new

facilities where required.

Establish a year-round indoor aquatic and recreation centre.

Establish change room facilities at Lords Reserve.

Establish a new indoor sports facility (i.e. Basketball / Netball stadium).

Continue to support sports facilities in each major township.

Support establishment of a public access equestrian facility.

Complete the soccer fields and facilities adjacent to the Secondary College.

Additional outdoor netball courts with lighting and shelter.

56

PAGE

10



Q9: The majority of respondents were aged 35-49 years (42.1%).

Q10: Females were more represented in survey respondents than males (i.e. 61% compared to 38%).

57

PAGE

11



Q12: The vast majority of respondents identified Mansfield as their home town (i.e. 73.5%), followed by

Bonnie Doon (7.3%). A range of other townships were also represented in survey respondents including:

Barwite 2.94%,

Merrijig 2.94%,

Tolmie 2.21%,

Boorolite 1.47%,

Maindample 1.47%, and

Barjarg 1.47%.

58

PAGE

12



Sports Club Survey Results

Q1: A total of 30 responses were received. Club/groups represented included:

Mansfield Clay Target Club

Delatite Cricket Club

Mansfield Croquet Club Inc

Mansfield Junior Cricket Association

Bonnie Doon Tennis Club

Mansfield Junior Football League

Goiugh's Bay Boat Sport & Recreation Club

Mansfield Pony Club

Mansfield Basketball

Mansfield junior netball and football

Mansfield Croquet Club

Mansfield and District Equestrian Club

MADEC

Mansfield & District Equestrian Club

Mansfield Tennis Association

Bonnie Doon Recreation Reserve Inc.

Mansfield Mt Buller Cycling Club

Merrijig Campdraft Association

GOJU-RYU AUSTRALIA

Mansfield basketball association

Mansfield Junior Netball Club

Mansfield netball club

Mansfield Race Club

Mansfield Secondary College

Mansfield gymnastics Club

Q2: Sports and activities represented included:

Trap and other forms of clay target shooting

Cricket

Croquet

Tennis

AFL Football

Boating and Fishing

Horse Riding

Basketball

Netball

Equestrian

Recreation Reserve Committee

Cycling (road, mountain bike and BMX)

Campdrafting

Karate

Gymnastics

Q3: Main facilities used included:

416 Pikes Rd Mansfield

Lords Reserve

Mansfield Recreation Reserve

Bonnie Doon Recreation Reserve

Gough's Bay Boat Club

Mansfield Show Grounds

Cummins Reserve, Mansfield

Mansfield Reserve netball courts

Mansfield Showgrounds

Riflebutts Reserve for MTB. 'Home' facilities

for road events is local roads, mainly

Mansfield-Whitfield Road. No 'home'

facilities at all for BMX.

McCormack Park

St Andrews Uniting Church Hall

Mansfield Stadium

Mercy Centre St Marys

Mansfield Recreation Reserve

Mansfield Race Course

Sports Complex, Main Oval

Mansfield Sporting complex main hall

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Q4: Based on club responses, the average membership per club has increased from 108 in 2013 to 140

in 2017. Total combined membership has increased from 2,055 in 2013 to 2,809 in 2017. Increasing

membership will contribute to greater demand for facilities and support infrastructure.

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Q5: According to survey results, there are slightly more male club members than female (i.e. 51%

compared to 42%). Similarly, there are more junior members (under 18 years) compared to seniors

(over 18years), i.e. 50% compared to 39%. However, almost one quarter of all members are aged over

50 years (26%) which is reflective of the age profile of the community.

Q6: All respondents expected membership to either remain stable or increase over the next 3-5 years,

with the majority expecting a 10-20% increase.

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Q7: According to clubs, key drivers of membership change (i.e. increases) will be due to club initiatives

to recruit members, increasing popularity of the sport/activity, growing resident population,

development of new facilities and/or due to the quality of existing facilities and positive competition

results.

Key challenges to membership growth include distance barriers, ageing population, changing sport

participation preferences and lack of appropriate facilities.

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Q8: The majority of clubs (57.1%) utilise their ‘home’ facilities up to 10 hours per week in season and

less than 5 hours per week out of season. However a large proportion utilise their facilities more than

these amounts, for example almost one in five clubs use their facilities either 10-20 hours or 20-30 hours

per week in season.

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Q9: Clubs were asked to nominate the main times/periods that they use their home facilities. Not

surprisingly, the results indicate that weekends and weekdays after 4pm account for the majority of

facility usage, however the graph below also highlights that usage is spread across the weekdays as well

as weekends. For example, although 60% of clubs indicated that weekday usage (before 4pm) accounts

for less than 20% of their total facility usage, 30% of club also indicated that this period accounts for 80-

100% of their usage.

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Q10: Approximately 1 in 5 clubs/groups indicated that facilities meet their needs, however 1 in 3

indicated that do not meet their needs. Almost half of all responses (47.6%) indicated that facilities only

meet their needs ‘sometimes’.

A sample of comments as to why facilities are not meeting needs include:

Lords Oval - the rooms are in poor condition, this has prevented us from hosting bigger cricket

events, as there is no change room facilities to speak of, and the poor one that exists is only suitable

for one person let alone two teams, or a team containing females, it is an embarrassment,

considering the magnificent way the actually playing field is kept!! The practice nets are also of a

poor quality, and need replacing.

The synthetic pitch at the Mansfield Recreation Reserve needs replacing.

The tennis court is co-located on the net ball court thus limited use available in netball season. No

net able to be left in situ. Multiple lines and limited side space on side due to netball layout.

Lack of club room facilities and poor quality of playing surface.

Limited availability to access indoor courts/facilities after school hours - insufficient courts available.

Lack of adequate car parking.

Surface of the oval is sub-standard for running events and/or rallies.

Riflebutts is good enough for the MTB part of the club but facilities for Road and BMX are non-

existent! We have no "club room" facilities, storage of equipment is a significant issue. The cub has

been trying to establish a competition BMX track for over 6 years.

No permanent power or toilet facilities available.

We have to set up and pack up heavy gymnastics equipment as it is a shared facility.

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Q11: Clubs were asked who maintains facilities. The results (below) highlight that both Council and

individual clubs play a key role in maintaining facilities. The results suggest that there may be

opportunities to improve the clarity in roles and responsibilities between Council and clubs in order to

enhance overall efficiencies and resource allocation. The results also suggest that there may be

inconsistencies in responsibilities across asset types (for example, why is Council maintaining some

playing fields, but not all. The same question applies to the other asset categories listed).

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Q12: The majority of clubs (52.6%) spend up to $5,000 on annual maintenance activities, however 1 in 5

are spending $5,000-$10,000p.a. A number of clubs (15) either skipped this question or provided no

response, therefore suggesting the results are somewhat inconclusive/indicative only.

Q13: In addition to direct financial costs required to maintain facilities, 68.4% of clubs contribute up to

10 hours of volunteer time per week in maintaining facilities. 1 in 5 clubs contribute 10-20 hours per

week and a further 10% of clubs contribute 20-30 hours of volunteer time per week in maintaining

facilities.

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Q14: Areas where Council performance rated highest included:

Responsiveness to user group enquiries/requests.

Sports field maintenance.

Keeping user groups up-to-date with information.

Areas where Council performance rated lowest included:

Developing new sport and recreation facilities.

Providing club development and management support.

Supporting initiatives to increase participation.

Meeting the needs of your club or group.

Meeting the needs of your sport or activity across the shire.

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Q15: What are the biggest challenges facing your club or group? Common responses have been

grouped into the following three themes, specifically:

Theme: Common challenges:

Facilities & Infrastructure New Club Room/Change Rooms - Lords Oval

Demand for additional indoor courts

Facilities – upgrade, refurbish

Establishing a BMX facility

Lighting at Lords Oval

Poor playing surface conditions, including school ovals

Maintenance of existing buildings

Club Support & Operations Operational costs and capital funding

Maintaining cooperation with other user groups in shared use facilities

Set up and pack up of equipment (e.g. gymnastics)

Attracting and retaining volunteers

Promoting our sport or activity

Participation Membership – retaining, increasing

Transition of juniors to club competition

Lack of players

Rider safety (road cycling)

Recruiting coaches

Distances / travelling

Keeping the 18 - 30 age group actively involved

Obtaining permits for road cycle racing

Growing events like Mansfield Tour and Vic Downhill Series - cycling

Q16: How would you like Council to assist you in addressing these challenges and supporting your club /

group? Common responses included:

Greater support from Council – direct funding, services (e.g. rubbish removal), promotion of our

club/sport, building and facility maintenance.

Greater acknowledgment and recognition of the benefits sporting clubs provide the community.

Ensure adequate access to grounds and facilities.

Build new pavilion and change rooms at Lords Oval.

Assistance in replacing the pitch at the Mansfield Rec Reserve.

Support tennis – facilities and promotion.

Establish new basketball courts, potentially in partnership with MSC

Reduce costs for indoor courts.

Improve condition of playing fields.

Assist in establishing a BMX track.

Assist in supporting road cycling events and activities, including permits.

Make it easier to build facilities on reserves as needed (e.g. toilets and storage facilities).

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Q17: Thinking about the entire Shire, what do you think should be the top three priorities for sport and

recreation facilities over the next ten years? This was an open ended question which attracted

considerable feedback, however the most common priorities suggested by clubs are identified below:

Highest priorities Medium priorities Low priorities

Maintenance and refurbishment of existing facilities

Ensuring there will be sufficient land for sporting facilities as the population increases

Improve playground amenities

Establish pavilion and change room facilities at Lords Oval

Parking and road upgrades within reserves

Toilet upgrades - disabled

2-court indoor multi-use indoor sports stadium at MSC, potentially including a permanent gymnastics area

Playing surface improvements Extension/renovation of MDRC clubrooms

Complete the Additional Playing Fields at the High School, including soccer and potentially football/cricket

Safer, user friendly roads for cycling

Cricket site screens at Lords

BMX track Shared off-road track/loop around Mansfield, linking GVRT to MDRC and Riflebutts Reserve and back down Monkey Gully Road to town.

Update shooting traps and provide drainage

Q18: Thinking about your Home venue / facility, what do you think should be the top priorities for

facility or infrastructure improvements over the next ten years? This was an open ended question which

attracted considerable feedback, however the most common priorities suggested by clubs are identified

below:

Common shire-wide priorities / themes Venue / facility specific suggested priorities

Club rooms / Change rooms upgrades New Club Rooms/Change Rooms – Lords Oval

More indoor courts - 2 court Indoor Basketball stadium at MSC

Introduce further types of shooting sports in Mansfield (skeet and sporting clays)

Upgrade facilities and toilets BMX track at MDRC

Resurfacing playing fields Enable road racing to use MDRC as start/finish to enhance feel of 'home' venue

Improve facility security Amenities at Rifle Butts reserve

Car parking and access road improvements Construction of 3rd cricket practice wicket/nets at Lords

Sports lighting 3rd playing oval which is usable and safe in Mansfield

Support social gathering – upgrade kitchen and bar facilities in sports clubs

Power and water supply (Merrijig Campdraft Association)

More shedding/storage Replace/ upgrade current tennis court (Bonnie Doon Tennis Club)

General maintenance improvements Build our own clubrooms (Mansfield Pony Club)

Safer, user friendly roads for cyclists Update shooting traps and provide drainage

Toilet upgrades - disabled (Mansfield Tennis)

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Common shire-wide priorities / themes Venue / facility specific suggested priorities

Parking and roads upgrades (Goiugh's Bay Boat Sport & Recreation Club)

Improve water facilities and toilet block (Mansfield Pony Club)

Surface protection (Mansfield Junior Netball Club)

Additional land (Mansfield & District Equestrian Club)

Extension/renovation of MDRC clubrooms (Mansfield Mt Buller Cycling Club)


Improved services (i.e. power and sprinkler system) (Mansfield Race Club)

Extend the Mansfield Sporting complex main hall (Mansfield Gymnastics Club)

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Consultation Notes

Public Submissions:

From: Key comments, issues or suggestions Implications for the Strategy

Jean Shannon President Bonnie Doon Tennis Club

Ours is a small club with only a few adult members. However we have strong junior membership and are able to make available junior coaching via Danny Cahill with an average of 12/14 children attending. The coaching is available from November until end March each year. The club is able to subsidise these lessons making the coaching affordable for parents and saves those parents travelling to Mansfield each Saturday morning. We are able to do this through fund raising efforts and memberships.

We currently share the facility with netball, the tennis lines being marked out on the netball training court not the actual netball competition court.

It is important that we always have availability of a tennis court here in Bonnie Doon especially for the juniors, as more and more families are moving to Bonnie Doon on a permanent basis. This should enable continuity of children attending.

Support retention of at least one tennis court in Bonnie Doon for club and community use.

Irene Omera Mansfield Croquet Club Inc

The Club was formed in March 2011 without any grants or hand-outs, and we have maintained a membership of around 60 – 65 players.

We play on Monday and Wednesday mornings on the Lord’s Ground, Mansfield.

Our Club is able to operate this way due to the co-operation of Council who own and maintain the ground, Apex from whom we rent the pavilion and MACE to whom we pay Insurance.

Club activities are enjoyed by visitors, school children, special needs and elderly members (over 80 years). We encourage and support physical activity and social interaction.

We have never received any monetary grants from the Shire, however if possible we would appreciate a small shed at the back or side of the Apex Pavilion.

Consider opportunities to incorporate a small storage space for the croquet club as part of any change room/pavilion upgrades at Lords Reserve.

Colleen Reynolds Year-Round Aquatic Facility for Mansfield Inc

Year-round Aquatic Facility for Mansfield (YAFM) Inc is a community group established to develop and drive the project for an indoor aquatic facility for Mansfield district. Formed in 2003 as a result of pressure from the community and a need to quantify support, YAFM quickly attracted over 350 members from all geographical regions in the shire, and Melbourne, and all demographics, with a significant representation from the senior sector, who had long felt the need for hydrotherapy/warm water exercise facilities.

Following numerous recreation, feasibility and strategic planning studies, all of which acknowledged

Aquatic Facility Provision to be discussed with the Project Steering Committee.

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From: Key comments, issues or suggestions Implications for the Strategy

the need for an indoor aquatic facility, in 2011 council commissioned a report into Future Options for Aquatics in Mansfield, which again overwhelmingly supported the need for an indoor aquatic facility, and demonstrated viability of the project. Council then undertook a consultation process to determine community acceptance of a financial model, and in light of that a direction for the future.

The resulting vote in Council failed to endorse the project for a year-round aquatic facility by the narrowest of margins – a hung vote with the mayor’s deciding vote made on the basis of the federal and state funding climate of the time.

We ask that the need for a year-round aquatic facility again be included in the current Sports Facilities Strategy Plan being developed.

Stakeholder / Group Key issues, comments or suggestions Implications for the Strategy

Mansfield Secondary College Tim Hall - Principal

The following information is derived from conversation and written submission from the MSC.

Mansfield Secondary College has a long, established history of working in partnership with Mansfield Shire Council (e.g. existing joint use agreements for the additional playing fields and the Performing Arts Centre.

With respect to the sporting facilities within our community, I note in particular the pressure on our basketball stadium and the netball courts. We would like to restate our desire for a sporting hub to be developed on our site. As noted our facilities masterplan is, in part, built around this opportunity.

MSC is eligible for a single court stadium. Whilst funding is not currently available to support the construction, I am confident that there will come a time in the near future when we will be able to achieve this. o A partnership with the Shire Council

to build a facility supports the town as well as the school.

o In partnership with the shire council there is the potential to build:

o A double court stadium, with associated infrastructure

o A double court outdoor training facility.

Consider opportunities to establish a new 2-court stadium adjacent to the Additional Playing Fields and reinforce the precinct as a multi-use community hub.

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Stakeholder / Group Key issues, comments or suggestions Implications for the Strategy

o A physical and aesthetic link between the stadium and the additional playing fields.

o A suitable car park and associated entrance-way.

Mansfield Primary School Julie McInnes - Principal

The Primary School (MPS) has very open space/outdoor play space at the current site, including no sporting oval. The school also lacks an indoor court/stadium or assembly space.

The school therefore relies on access to Lords Oval for recreational and curricula use.

The Shire restricts access to the Mansfield Recreation Reserve in order to preserve the playing surface condition. The school is required to book the oval if required and is subject to approval. Therefore the recreation reserve oval is rarely used.

The Sports Complex is currently used by the school approximately 8 hours per week. The PS would like to increase use of this facility, including possibly for weekly school assemblies.

The original (1986) Sports Complex joint use agreement between the PS, Secondary College and Shire may need to be reviewed to explore opportunities to better accommodate each groups needs.

The PS would like to convert the grassed area behind the Sports Complex (i.e. school land) to a synthetic multi-use playing surface (potentially incorporating Hockey) for school and community use. A partnership with the Shire would be welcomed.

Review the 1986 Sports Complex joint use agreement to consider opportunities to improve outcomes.

Support ongoing school use of Lords Oval.

Consider opportunities to partner with the PS to establish a multi-use synthetic playing surface (e.g. to support hockey, soccer or general community use).

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Background Documents:

Document Key findings and possible implications for the Strategy

Recreation and Leisure Strategy, 2006

Summary of previous recommendations (status in red): Outdoor playing fields 1. Identify a preferred site and plan for the development of one additional full-size sports oval in/around Mansfield township. Additional Playing Fields. 2. Plan for the development of one additional soccer/rugby/hockey size rectangular playing field in conjunction with the master plan for the site adjacent to Mansfield Secondary College. Completed. 3. Support Bonnie Doon Recreation Reserve Committee of Management’s plans for realigning/extending the Bonnie Doon Recreation Reserve ground and upgrading associated amenities. Ongoing. 4. Mansfield Football Club’s seasonal tenure of the oval be continued - Completed; and − upgrading of the sub-base, drainage, irrigation and turf of the Mansfield Recreation Reserve oval (with or without extension of the ground size) be reconsidered in the light of conditions prevailing following development of the recommended new oval in Mansfield – Works completed, ground extension not supported. 5. Develop a consistent policy for the application of user fees for outdoor playing facilities, based on a target recovery of 20% to 25% of recurrent costs. Ongoing Indoor sports facilities 6. It is recommended that Council note the possibility that the existing indoor sports complex may become redundant at some future time. To be confirmed – support re-use/re-purposing. 7. Pending a decision on the feasibility and long-term strategy to relocate the indoor sports complex as part of an integrated sports, fitness and aquatic centre at the site adjacent to Mansfield Secondary College, it is recommended that an immediate assessment be made of the potential to seal the insulation batts inside the sports hall to prevent the escape of dust particles. Completed. 8. It is recommended that quotations be obtained for the installation of a sprung (resilient) floor to the sports hall. Completed Year-round aquatic facilities 9. It is recommended that Council nominate the land between Mansfield Secondary College and Malcolm Street as the preferred site for development for any indoor heated aquatic centre in Mansfield. Rejected on further investigation – refer below.

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10. It is recommended that a master planning study be commissioned to confirm the capacity of the site to accommodate an indoor sports, aquatic and fitness centre, a soccer/rugby/hockey size rectangular pitch and associated car parking and landscaping; and to identify staging opportunities for the total proposed development. The master planning study should also take account of the prospect of locating a proposed shared community facility on the site, subject to final determination of availability of the preferred site for that facility (ie the Bindaree site in Highett Street). Rejected on further investigation – refer below. 11. It is recommended that Council moves to acquire control of the entire site between Mansfield Secondary College and Malcolm Street, through purchase of the private land and either transfer of title or long-term tenure agreement with the Education Department for the government-owned land. Rejected on further investigation – refer below. 12. Subject to confirmation of the adequacy of the site adjacent to Mansfield Secondary College through the master planning study, it is recommended that a detailed feasibility and planning study be commissioned to: − identify the elements to be included in the first stage of development of an indoor sports, aquatic and fitness centre, soccer/rugby/hockey size rectangular pitch and associated car parking and landscaping; − produce an architectural brief for design of stage 1; − obtain capital cost estimates based on the architectural brief; − develop an outline business plan including management structures, programming, operating budget forecasts and capital funding strategies. Rejected on further investigation – refer below. Other expressed needs 13. It is recommended that Council endorse in principle the proposal to develop squash courts at the Elvins Street tennis complex; and support/assist the squash club committee in the preparation and submission of applications for State Government funding assistance. Status of squash courts? 14. It is recommended that Council prepare and endorse a policy covering the planning for and provision of walking and bicycle routes within townships and throughout the broader Shire. Engineering Department developed a draft Footpath Strategy in 2016.

Future Improved Aquatic Facility Options Assessment Summary April 2011

The 5 previous studies (conducted between 1996 and 2007) have all indicated strong support and need for new Mansfield aquatic facilities but the high capital and operational costs have restricted recommended projects progressing.

One: Existing Mansfield Swimming Centre to Be Replaced o The project findings indicate the existing aged Mansfield Swimming

Centre is located on a small land locked site without appropriate car parking/access and therefore limited in the future facility improvements possible and not recommended as the best site for aquatic development that can meet resident’s year round needs.

Two: Preferred Future Aquatic Development Option

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o In line with the seven options reviewed, compared and analyzed that the project team recommends the Option 4 Buller Ski Hire Site as the best long term (40 years plus life) future aquatic development option that can cater for all year round use at the lowest development cost and the best operational use and return for Mansfield Shire.

Three: Discuss/Negotiate Potential Part Facility and Site Acquisition o That Mansfield Shire Council commence discussions with the site

owner to determine a likely purchase cost and future site management agreement under a joint body corporate model to enable the final project cost to be determined

Four: Detailed Concept Design and Capital Cost Estimates o That Mansfield Shire provide a budget of $30,000 for detailed

concept design on the recommended option to enable more detailed planning and certified Quantity Surveyor costing to be calculated on the final concept.

Five: Shared Funding Strategy o Taking into account the limited capacity of Council and its residents

to fund such a proposed facility it is essential that a partnership funding program be investigated further and implemented.

Six: Council Contribution to Part Fund the Project o That Council needs to determine the best way of funding the

proposed $3M capital contribution proposed from Mansfield Shire Council to enable the funding strategy and likely rate increase to be finalized.

Seven: Development Only Proceed if all Parties Contribute o That Council resolve that If capital contributions cannot be achieved

then the project is likely to be financially unsustainable for a community the size of Mansfield Shire and Council not proceed with the development until required contributions can be secured or alternative funding is achieved.

o The project $7M funding target could be funded under the following shared partnership model:

o Mansfield Shire Council $3.0M o Vic State Better Pools Grant (maximum) $2.5M o Federal Government Grant $0.5M o Community fund raising/bequests $1.0M o Total Funding $7.0M

Eight: Testing Community Response for Rate Increases to part Fund Project and Support for the Project to Proceed

o That due to this project being of high community interest and also significant capital funding and rate impacts Council should set up a community consultation program to test community attitudes to the recommended project. This consultation to also test attitudes to a projected 3% to 6% rate increase to fund part capital loans, annual operational and asset renewal costs for the proposed development (subject to final funding strategy agreed by MSC)

A consultation program was conducted and fee model rejected by the community. In line with the report recommendation, development of an indoor aquatic facility may therefore be considered unviable for Council to pursue.

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Mansfield Shire Sport and Recreation Strategy 2014 –2019

Objectives of the Recreation and Leisure Strategy were to:

Facilitate and develop a vision for recreation and leisure in Mansfield and the smaller communities within the Shire;

Develop an inventory of facilities;

Identify strategies and priorities for facility development;

Develop strategies and priorities for recreation and leisure programs Key themes emerged from consultations included:

Individuals – preference for informal recreation opportunities as opposed to formal sport.

Facilities - lack of facilities, standard of facilities, limited availability of the Mansfield Sports Complex and poor condition of oval playing surfaces raised as key issues.

Paths and tracks for walking and cycling - improvements to the network local walking/cycling paths and tracks are necessary to address current and future community demands.

Volunteers - the majority of clubs and groups were challenged with recruiting and retaining volunteers to assist run the clubs.

Strategic planning - few clubs have strategic plans in place and do not have the capacity to undertake such planning.

Aquatic facility - a desire for a year-round aquatic facility.

Gymnasiums – desire for access to adequate public health/fitness facility. Sport facility actions that are yet to be implemented include:

2.1 Work with user groups to consider options for the development of club/change rooms at the Lords Reserve.

2.2 Continue to investigate the feasibility of additional stadiums within the Shire

2.3 Work with communities to strategically plan for and develop outdoor exercise opportunities such as walking tracks and paths (MHWBP)

2.4 Identify opportunities to increase the number of public BBQ’s located at the Shire’s reserves and facilities to increase recreational opportunities Medium

2.5 Review the Future Improved Aquatic Facility Options Assessment Report 2011 and the Mansfield Aquatic Facility Community Engagement Final Report 2011 and refer to any past investigations and consultations to inform an investigation for feasible financial models for provision of indoor aquatic facilities.

Council Plan 2017-21

The Council Plan outlines a commitment to working in partnership with the community and relevant stakeholders to achieve the overarching aspiration for the Shire. Specifically the Aspiration for our Shire and its community:

We live, work and play in an inclusive, dynamic and prosperous place where community spirit is strong and people are empowered to engage in issues that affect their lives.

The plan suggests that Council’s role within the community and as a third tier of government has changed significantly in recent times. Therefore strategic priorities and actions are guided by what Council can control, influence or have an interest in. Strategic priorities have been identified under the following themes:

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Participation and partnerships

Financial sustainability

Community resilience & connectivity

Enhanced likeability

Responsible Leadership Specific actions included in the Council plan relevant to this project include:

Strategic Objective 1.4 We have high levels of community participation, with growing levels of engagement from our senior citizens and people of all abilities.

o Develop and implement an Active Ageing Strategy. o Actively communicate volunteering opportunities and benefits

through the Shire’s website, Facebook page and the media. o Deliver and support a diverse events program that offers numerous

accessible and affordable opportunities for participation.

Strategic Objective 2.3 We prudently manage our asset maintenance and capital works programs in line with our long term financial plan.

o Adopt a ‘whole of life costing’ approach to asset management as part of a cost benefit analysis to inform decisions around the creation of any new asset.

Strategic Objective 2.7 Mansfield’s economy is diverse, with the agility to respond to changing consumer demands.

o Develop a strategic plan to optimise economic benefits from cycling based tourism in partnership with businesses operating within this sector and our tourism partners such as Tourism North East and the Great Victorian Rail Trail.

Strategic Objective 3.3 Mansfield Shire is a welcoming, supportive and inclusive place to be.

o Promote volunteering opportunities across the Shire and develop a process to increase opportunities for residents to contribute to community life.

Strategic Objective 4.1 We have long term strategies and capital works programs in place to respond to changing community needs.

o Develop and implement a new Sports Facility Strategy in consultation with sporting groups and funding bodies.

o Advocate for and, where possible, implement the recommendations from Lake Eildon Land and On- Water Management Plan and Lake Eildon Recreational Boating Facilities Improvement Plan.

Strategic Objective 4.3 Our community proactively manages its health and wellbeing.

o Establish a database of physical activity opportunities for senior citizens, distributing this information through a range of channels tailored to their preferred method of communication.

o Build on the Active Mansfield initiative and campaign to promote healthy, active lifestyles and increasing the use of Council’s leisure facilities.

Council faces a number of challenges in achieving its strategic objectives. These include:

A large rural road network and aged drainage infrastructure

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Limited financial resources exacerbated by government funding not keeping pace with cost increases

Increasing Community expectations for services and new facilities/works

Need for adequate capital renewal expenditure investment

Increasing maintenance requirements due to increasing asset base

Population growth

Increasing requirements of other levels of government

Introduction of rate capping (Fair Go Rates) legislation

Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2013-17

Selected characteristics: o Around 46.0% of the population in Mansfield are overweight or

obese, compared to 49.8% in Victoria o 16.2% of the population of Mansfield smoke which is slightly higher

than the Victorian average of 15.7% o Around one in five people (23.5%) did not meet physical activity

guidelines, compared to 32.1% for Victoria. We already know the most popular activity for exercise in Mansfield is walking

o 54.1% of people in Mansfield consume alcohol in a way that could lead to short term harm, compared to 45.3% across Victoria

o Mansfield has a much higher percentage of people who volunteer (31.8%) than Victoria (19.3%) and is ranked 16 out of 79 LGAs, although many of our volunteers are ageing

o The percentage of residents who feel safe walking alone during the day is 97.8%. The percentage that feel safe on the streets alone after dark is 92.0%, which is much higher than the Victorian average of 63.9%.

o People in the community with a disability who need for assistance with core activity is 5.0% which is the same as the Victorian average.

o The percentage of persons reporting fair or poor health is 14.7% which is 4% lower than the state average.

Key priorities for Mansfield Shire were identified as: o Strong and effective partnerships and networks o Ensure that health planning and service delivery is reflective of

current health and community data o Continue to collaboratively plan and deliver integrated, high quality

community facilities that meet a range of health, cultural, education and community needs

o Increase the available support, services and opportunities to participate in community life for people who are disadvantaged

o Identify and focus initiatives to areas of high disadvantage o Facilitate the retention and expansion of businesses and

organisations to increase local employment opportunities and healthy living

o Enhance the built environment to contribute to liveability and opportunities for social interaction

o Improve the amenity of open spaces and streetscapes o Prepare for current and future climate change and look after our

environment for future generations o Promote healthy living and lifestyle choices o Promote and support a safe and inclusive community o Plan for the needs of an ageing community

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o To enhance mental health and wellbeing, provide opportunities for people to be involved, connected and engaged

Improving our built and natural environment - Natural and built environments that enhance our health and safety - what we hope to achieve:

o Improved access to our community infrastructure and buildings o More opportunities for exercise out of doors o Protection of our natural environment from the impacts of

development and recreation o A continued focus on high quality recreation facilities o Resilient and self-sufficient communities

Priority 3.1: Enhance the built environment to contribute to liveability and opportunities for social interaction – Actions:

o Develop a Sport and Recreation Plan that addresses the needs of sporting clubs and groups

o Work with communities to strategically plan for and develop outdoor exercise opportunities such as walking tracks and pathways

o Undertake continuous improvement to the accessibility of our infrastructure and open spaces

o Ensure all new infrastructure and maintenance and upgrades include compliance with DDA and AS for access and mobility including the ongoing repair and maintenance of the existing footpath network

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Demographic Characteristics and Profile In the 2016 Census, there were 8,584 people in Mansfield Shire. Of these 49.8% were male and 50.2%

were female. Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people made up 0.7% of the population.

The median age of people in Mansfield Shire was 48 years. Children aged 0 - 14 years made up 17.9% of

the population and people aged 65 years and over made up 24.0% of the population.

In Mansfield Shire 79.5% of people were born in Australia. The most common countries of birth were

England 3.5%, New Zealand 1.0%, Germany 0.9%, Scotland 0.5% and Netherlands 0.4%.

The median weekly household income in Mansfield Shire was $1,062, which is considerably below the

Victorian and National average ($1,419 and $1,438 respectively). 27.4% of households had a weekly

household income of less than $650.

Of the families in Mansfield Shire, 36.3% were couple families with children, 50.1% were couple families

without children and 12.5% were one parent families.

The population of the Shire is growing, however at rates below the Victorian average. The forecast

population is expected to grow to approximately 9,595 people by 2031. An increase of around 1,000

people. An increase of this size will not be a significant contributor to demand for additional formal

sport facilities, with the possible exception of indoor courts, existing facilities should have the capacity

to accommodate additional users – particularly with the pending completion of the Additional Fields

(multi-use playing fields) in Mansfield.

The profile of the community is expected to continue to follow an ageing trend. When compared to the

2011 Census it is forecast that the proportion of 0-19 years and 20-65 years will be lower than it is

currently, however the proportion of those aged over 65 years will increase. These figures are shown

below:

Age group Proportion of the Mansfield Shire population

2011 Census 2031 Forecast

0-19 years 25.7% 24.0%

20-64 years 55.3% 49.0%

65+ years 18.9% 27.0%

Mansfield has a low rate of family incidents, a high percentage that feel safe on the street alone and

high levels of citizen engagement. Individual and household incomes are below average, and mortgage

stress is relatively high, although rental stress is lower than average. Less than 4% of the population is

near to public transport, and the number of dwellings with no motor vehicles is half the Victorian

average.

Year 9 students in Mansfield score well on education indicators, with the percentages of students

attaining minimum standards in reading, writing and numeracy being among the highest in the state.

The percentage of children developmentally vulnerable in one or more domains is the lowest in the

state.

The proportion of the female population who are current smokers is well above average, as is the

percentage of the population at risk of short-term harm from alcohol consumption. The rates of

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intentional and unintentional injury are lower than average. While avoidable deaths due to

cardiovascular disease are the lowest of all LGAs, avoidable deaths due to respiratory disease are the

third highest. Emergency Department presentations and primary care-type presentations occur at one

of the lowest rates in the state, and GP attendances are also lower than average.

Sources:


(accessed 3/7/2017)


(accessed 3/7/17)

Victoria in Future 2016, Mansfield Shire

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Industry Trends The Australian Sports Commission released a paper titled 'The Future of Australian Sport, Megatrends

shaping the sport sector over coming decades' in April 2013. The paper identified six megatrends that

are likely to shape the sport sector over the next 30 years. Megatrends were described as important

patterns of social, economic or environmental change. The megatrends identified are summarised

below:

1. A Perfect Fit:

A rise in personalised sport and fitness activities for individual health and fitness.

2. From Extreme to Mainstream:

The rise of lifestyle, adventure and alternative sports - particularly popular with younger

generations.

3. More Than Sport:

Increasing recognition (by Government and stakeholders) of the broader benefits of sport,

including mental and physical health and community wellbeing.

4. Everybody's Game:

Evidence of Australians embracing sport participation into old age.

5. New Wealth, New Talent:

On an international scale, population and income growth, particularly within Asia, will create

tougher competition and new business opportunities for Australians.

6. Tracksuits to Business Suits:

Emergence of new market pressures and business models, resulting in pressure for community

sport organisations to adopt more formal corporate structures and governance systems. The

cost of participating in sport is also on the rise.

In addition to the Megatrends identified above, two important elements have been considered when

identifying trends that are likely to influence future leisure provision in Mansfield Shire. Specifically,

sport and physical activity participation trends and leisure facility development trends.

Australian adults are significantly less physically active than is recommended for good health. Being

physically active is essential for health and wellbeing and can help reduce the risk of chronic disease.

Not being sufficiently active is the leading contributor to preventable illness and morbidity among

women. Despite most women recognising the range of benefits to being physically active, when they

exercise they do so at a lower level of intensity and have higher amounts of sedentary time than young

men1.

Physical activity also decreases with age (though not uniformly) with a clear turning point identified in

the late teen years, particularly amongst females. Many young women do not feel they can be

physically active. They face a number of additional barriers not experienced by young men. In response

to this public health issue the Australian Government (through the Department of Health) has

developed the “Girls make your move” campaign featuring real girls playing sport and being physically

1 VicHealth: Female participation in sport and physical activity, Aug 2015. Publication # P-PA-283.

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active. The campaign aims to establish sport and physical activity as a natural part of young women’s

lives – to be enjoyed, not endured.

The Victorian Government’s Inquiry into Women and Girls in Sport and Active Recreation (2014) resulted

in the release of A Five Year Game Plan for Victoria, in November 2015. The report outlines a vision of

the future, where women and girls in all roles in sport and active recreation are the norm, and where

females and males have the same choices and opportunities to lead and to participate. The inquiry has

resulted in a number of new State Government programs and funding to support improvement

initiatives, including establishment of the Female Friendly Facilities Fund.

The research urges a shift in focus from creating “equal” opportunities for females to determining how

best to support women and girls so they have equitable opportunities to participate. In this context,

“equity” requires consideration of the unique needs, interests and experiences of the target group when

developing and delivering services and allocating resources.

At a State level, walking for exercise, fitness or recreation remains the most popular physical activity of

choice for Victorian adults (regardless of gender) with a regular participation rate approaching one

quarter of the population (i.e. 24.3%). When combined with jogging/running (7.8%), almost one third

(32.1%) of all Victorian adults either walk, jog or run for exercise, fitness or recreation2.

The most popular physical activities are dominated by informal recreation as opposed to club based

sports participation. This has increased demand for greater diversity in recreation participation

opportunities, both in terms of activities and times available. It has also led to an increase in

commercial use of public facilities and open space for leisure participation programs (e.g. personal

trainers).

Industry trends also reflect emerging changes in sports products and programming, for example 20:20

cricket, mid-week night tennis competitions, veterans/masters competitions, etc. These changes reflect

growth in social sports participation, often combining skill levels in recognition of preferences for social

outcomes.

Across the State there is also burgeoning interest and participation (both as players and officials) in a

range of sports by women and girls, including activities traditionally dominated by males, for example

Austrian Rules Football, Cricket and Soccer as well as ongoing participation interest in Netball and

Basketball to name a few.

Many sports peak bodies are also increasing the emphasis and delivery of introductory sports

participation programs aimed at junior development and recruitment (e.g. Auskick, Small Sided Games

(Soccer), Net-Set-Go Netball, etc.).

There are a number of trends impacting on formal sports clubs, most notably declining volunteerism and

increasing professionalism (driven by a desire for competitive advantage and regulatory requirements).

Both of these factors impact on the capacity of clubs to provide participation opportunities for the

community.

2 ABS, Participation in Sport and Physical Recreation, Australia, 2011-12 – Victoria

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The general trends noted above are influencing contemporary leisure facility design and development.

It is now more common to design facilities that can be configured to meet a variety of different needs

and uses (i.e. in-built design flexibility for adaptive reuse over time).

The importance of providing facilities that support a high level of social interaction and engagement are

also increasingly being recognised. Examples include under-cover external viewing areas attached to

sports pavilions and the design of meeting and social spaces within sport and leisure facilities.

Facility developments are increasingly adopting a hierarchal approach to infrastructure provision which

reflects different service levels, usage and standards of provision. This includes the establishment of

major regional sport/leisure facility hubs that offer a wide variety of co-located activities/sports and

ancillary services at a higher level.

Industry trends also highlight increasing environmental awareness and climate change impacts,

including water and energy conservation initiatives. There is also an emergence of new playing surface

technologies which allow Councils to maximise the use of existing assets (e.g. synthetic playing

surfaces).

Planning Implications

Greater consideration will need to be given to opportunities to enhance informal recreation

participation opportunities within open space as these account for the largest proportion of overall

physical activity participation by the community including walking, cycling and running. This

reinforces the importance of quality walking paths, trails and accessible open space facilities.

Supporting non-organised physical activities (through infrastructure, services and programs) will

help facilitate increased physical activity participation by the community, in particular by girls,

women and older age groups. Opportunities to support walking, jogging and cycling should be

considered a priority.

It can be expected that the use of parks and open space by personal trainers is likely to increase

associated with a growing preference for ‘pay as you go’ activities and increasing recognition of the

health benefits of regular physical activity participation.

Demand for organised sport opportunities, particularly for children aged 5-15 years and young

adults aged 15-24 years, will remain significant (and growing), including soccer, football, cricket,

netball, basketball and aerobic/fitness.

Greater consideration will need to be given to initiatives that support participation in formal sport

and club based physical activities by women and girls.

Future facility and service provision will need to maximise opportunities for multi-use, including the

development of ‘service hubs’ and the establishment of a hierarchical approach to facility provision

that is linked to defined service levels and asset management planning.

New and refurbished facility provision should consider opportunities to support social gathering

spaces, multi-use and incorporating a high degree of environmental sustainability in design,

development and operation. Facilities development or improvement must consider Universal

Design principles, including female friendly design3.

Ensure future residential areas ‘embrace’ open space reserves and encourage casual surveillance to

support informal recreational use.

3 Refer to www.sport.vic.gov.au/female -friendly-sport-infrastructure-guidelines

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Plan, provide and maintain walking paths and linear connections to/from recreation reserves and

key destinations as a high priority.

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Financial Capacity Source: Council Plan / Strategic Resource Plan 2017-2021

The asset renewal gap is the gap (shortfall in funding) between existing renewal expenditure and

recommended expenditure that is required to maintain assets in a condition capable of providing levels

of service set by Council in conjunction with community expectations. These assets include but are not

limited to roads, bridges, footpaths, kerb and channel, buildings and stormwater drainage.

In February 2017, a report was presented to Council which included long term (10 year) financial

modelling containing Council’s asset renewal estimates, forecast income and expenditure and

unrestricted cash levels. The report indicated that, on average over the next 4 years, Council is unable

to fund its required asset renewal by an average of $700,000 per annum and this gap will continue to

grow beyond 2020-21, if left unaddressed.

The SRP seeks to address the $700,000 gap through a combination of cost efficiencies and service

reduction. Further community consultation will be undertaken over the next 12 months to assess

further service reductions or the potential for Council to apply to the Minister for a variation to the

mandated rate cap.

Capital spend for 2017-18 is restricted primarily to asset renewal.

As a general principle Council will:

Reduce the renewal gap in roads, bridges, buildings and other assets.

Complete building renewal as funding becomes available.

Maintain the current annual expenditure for the reseal and resheet programs in accordance with

renewal gap analysis.

Implement the Four Year Capital plan as created and modified as new projects are identified.

Operating surpluses are forecast each year until 2020-21 as a result of significant capital grant

revenue being received to fund the capital works program.

Capital expenditure over the four year period of the SRP will be approximately $30 million.

Whilst Council’s overall liquidity appears sound, the financial position and operating environment

remains significantly challenged. Opportunities for cost savings in services, operations and asset

management are actively being explored.

Council’s asset renewal deficit and backlog of required maintenance works remain a priority for

resource allocation within the capacity of the SRP. There is, on average, a 50% / 50% split between

renewal spend and new/upgrade spend of Council cash. This focus will allow the forecast asset renewal

gap to close by 2021.

Therefore, recommendations developed as part of the Sports Facilities Strategy need to be cognisant of

the realistic financial capacity of Council and key stakeholders to implement. Potential

recommendations for major infrastructure investment and new facilities are only likely to be viable if

significant external funding and partnerships can be achieved. This may impact on timing of potential

delivery (i.e. subject to external influences) and require ongoing advocacy in order to secure funds.

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Recommendations that may impact on programs and service delivery will generally be required to be

delivered within existing operational resources. This may require a review of service delivery in order to

identify possible cost savings, re-allocation or realignment to reflect the priorities identified in this

report. Aside from Parks & Gardens maintenance staff, Council currently employs one full time

Recreation Officer. Key priorities will therefore need to be allocated to annual work plans having regard

to existing capacity.

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Demand Assessment / Needs Analysis Population:

The population of the Shire is expected to increase by approximately 1,000 people over the next fifteen

years (i.e. increasing from 8,584 (2016) to approx. 9,596 (2031) people). An increase of this size will not

automatically require the provision of new or additional facilities, however the standard, maintenance

and capacity of existing facilities may need to be improved in order to cater for modest increases in

demand associated with population growth.

The age profile of the community continues to age. Residents aged 45 to 84 are overrepresented

compared to the state average and those aged 15 to 44 are underrepresented. Demand for activities

that cater for adults can be expected to increase, including non-club based, informal recreation

participation opportunities.

Participation trends:

According to club survey results, the average membership per club has increased from 108 in 2013 to

140 in 2017. Total combined membership has increased from 2,055 in 2013 to 2,809 in 2017. Increasing

membership will contribute to greater demand for facilities and support infrastructure.

There are more junior members (under 18 years) compared to seniors (over 18years), i.e. 50%

compared to 39%. However, almost one quarter of all members are aged over 50 years (26%) which is

reflective of the age profile of the community.

Walking for exercise, fitness or recreation remains the most popular physical activity of choice for

Victorian adults (regardless of gender) with a regular participation rate approaching one quarter of the

population (i.e. 24.3%). When combined with jogging/running (7.8%), almost one third (32.1%) of all

Victorian adults either walk, jog or run for exercise, fitness or recreation4.

The most popular physical activities are dominated by informal recreation as opposed to club based

sports participation. This has increased demand for greater diversity in recreation participation

opportunities, both in terms of activities and times available.

Across the State there is also burgeoning interest and participation (both as players and officials) in a

range of sports by women and girls, including activities traditionally dominated by males, for example

Austrian Rules Football, Cricket and Soccer as well as ongoing participation interest in Netball and

Basketball to name a few.

Demand for organised sport opportunities, particularly for children aged 5-15 years and young adults

aged 15-24 years, will remain significant (and growing), including soccer, football, cricket, netball,

basketball and aerobic/fitness.

Consultation results:

Respondents identified more than 35 different sports and activities that they regularly patriciate in. This

reflects a good level of diversity and opportunities available in the Shire – many of which reflect the

4 ABS, Participation in Sport and Physical Recreation, Australia, 2011-12 – Victoria

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geographic characteristics of the Shire, for example snow sports, hiking, fishing, mountain walking and

equestrian activities.

Around half of the activities identified are club-based organised sports – including tennis, netball, AFL

football, basketball and golf as popular examples in Mansfield Shire - however the most popular

activities overall reflect a preference for casual and informal participation opportunities, which is

consistent with State and National trends, in particular the popularity of walking and cycling.

A lack of facilities was identified as a key reason for non-participation in sport and recreation activities

across the Shire (i.e. 39.66% of respondents). The poor standard of existing facilities was identified by a

further 10.34% of respondents – therefore half of all respondents identified facilities as a major

constraint to participation.

Furthermore, 1 in 3 clubs indicated that facilities do not meet their needs and almost half of all club

responses (47.6%) indicated that facilities only meet their needs ‘sometimes’. Key priorities for facility

and infrastructure improvements were identified as follows:

Highest priorities Medium priorities Low priorities

Maintenance and refurbishment of existing facilities

Ensuring there will be sufficient land for sporting facilities as the population increases

Improve playground amenities

Establish pavilion and change room facilities at Lords Oval

Parking and road upgrades within reserves

Toilet upgrades - disabled

2-court indoor multi-use indoor sports stadium at MSC, potentially including a permanent gymnastics area

Playing surface improvements Extension/renovation of MDRC clubrooms

Complete the Additional Playing Fields at the High School, including soccer and potentially football/cricket

Safer, user friendly roads for cycling


BMX track Shared off-road track/loop around Mansfield, linking GVRT to MDRC and Riflebutts Reserve and back down Monkey Gully Road to town.


Sport facility gaps:

Mansfield Shire is generally well serviced by a range of sport facilities that provide a variety of activity

and participation opportunities for the community. Potential sport facility gaps identified through the

research and consultation as part of this project include:

Demand for additional indoor court/stadium facilities.

Demand for access to year round heated indoor swimming pool.

Increasing demand for safe walking and cycling routes and associated infrastructure, including BMX

track.

Demand for improved playing fields (i.e. playing surface upgrades).

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Completion of the Additional Playing Fields in order to provide an alternative venue particularly for

soccer and potentially as an overflow training location when other ovals require resting or

maintenance. This also requires provision of adequate multi-use change rooms and sports pavilion

to support social gathering and community use.

Desire for a permanently set-up gymnastics facility.

Township / site specific gaps:

Township and site specific gaps or suggested improvements identified in the consultation included:

Mansfield:

Build new pavilion and change rooms at Lords Oval.

Assistance in replacing the pitch at the Mansfield Rec Reserve.

Establish new basketball courts, potentially in partnership with MSC

Establish club room facilities (i.e. home) for cycling, including BMX track and adequate storage

facilities (Mansfield Mt Buller Cycling Club).

Year round access to a heated indoor swimming pool.

Desire for a permanently set-up gymnastics facility (Mansfield Gymnastics Club).

Completion of the Additional Playing Fields – playing surfaces and support infrastructure.

Build our own clubrooms and improve the water facilities and toilet block (Mansfield Pony Club)

Toilet upgrades - disabled (Mansfield Tennis)

Surface protection (Mansfield Junior Netball Club)

Additional land (Mansfield & District Equestrian Club)


Improved services (i.e. power and sprinkler system) (Mansfield Race Club)

Improve playground amenities (Mansfield Secondary College)

Other Areas:

Improve condition of playing fields.

Paths and tracks for walking and cycling - improvements to the network of local walking/cycling

paths and tracks.

Retain access to tennis courts for casual use.

Maintenance and refurbishment of existing facilities.

Volunteers - the majority of clubs and groups across the Shire are challenged with recruiting and

retaining volunteers to assist running existing clubs.

Power and water supply (Merrijig Campdraft Association)

Replace/ upgrade current tennis court (Bonnie Doon Tennis Club)


Parking and roads upgrades (Goiugh's Bay Boat Sport & Recreation Club)

Safer, user friendly roads for cyclists

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