Magazine - King George V Rebuild

By Press Release in General News on 30th Jun 2009 4:00

The Minister for Workplace Relations, Lisa Singh today handed over a cheque for $164,000 to the Glenorchy City Council for the replacement of the Grandstand at the King George V football oval.

Ms Singh said the loss of the Cresswell-Beakley grandstand, in the early hours of Wednesday 11 October 2007, due to a fire was heartbreaking for those who had given so much to the Glenorchy Football Club.

“The Cresswell-Beakley Stand was a significant part of Glenorchy’s sporting and civic heritage,” Ms Singh said.

“It was especially horrible given that the fire occurred three weeks after Glenorchy won the SFL Grand Final, its first premiership in 8-years.

“Sporting facilities provide a focal point for members of the community to engage with community organisations and each other.

“The destruction was a shocking loss, representing 50 years of football history and community spirit.

“The 50 year old grandstand sustained extensive damage and many items were lost such as junior uniforms, memorabilia, change rooms, public toilets, old photos and catering, office and gym equipment.

“The loss of the gym equipment had an enormous effect on players who worked out in the gym two or three times weekly.

“That’s why in March 2008, the State Government granted $3000 to the Glenorchy Football club, for assisting the club with access to gymnasium equipment.

“The new Grandstand, to be completed in coming months, will return a valuable asset and venue to Glenorchy, providing year round sporting events to be enjoyed by all patrons and the wider community.

“The grandstand will also be joined by a function centre and feature improved disability access, to help bring all aspects of the community together.

“This funding reaffirms the State Government’s continuing role in creating healthier and stronger communities by providing high quality sporting and recreational facilities,” Ms Singh said.

Read more articles in General News, by Press Release or from June 2009.