By Esther Lauaki
A year on from the opening of the $11.75 million redevelopment that transformed the Chirnside Park Hub into a state-of-the-art sports facility there’s been plenty to cheer about.
The home to Werribee’s football and cricket clubs is now a base for AFL and cricket pathway programs and has hosted WRFL finals across all divisions.
Werribee Football Club chief executive Mark Penaluna said the transformation has improved all the clubs at Chirnside Park.
“It’s been able to increase the profile of Wyndham,” Mr Penaluna said.
“Our club has the ability to attract these high profile events. We’re pleased that we’ve been able to facilitate and work with different stakeholders in relation to those events.”
Mr Penaluna said some of the highlights of the past year included citizenship ceremonies, the AFL women’s games and the Wyndham Business and Tourism Association luncheons.
Werribee Football Club joined with North Melbourne Football Club to deliver programs from this new facility with The Huddle, aimed at engaging and inspiring young people, primarily those aged between 12 and 25.
“It’s quite unique that The Huddle is happening in Wyndham,” Mr Penaluna said.
“It’s great that an AFL club is delivering its programs together with ours and servicing the region.
“We’re very lucky to have it and so is the Wyndham community.”
The redevelopment was funded by Wyndham council, the Werribee Football Club, the AFL, AFL Victoria, the state government and the federal government.
The hub includes a pavilion, facilities for women’s football, a new grandstand, a commercial kitchen and kiosk, a multi-purpose social meeting room, community spaces and improved car parking.
