Hands Oval redevelopment: $3 million funding from State Government to transform regional football ground

The redevelopment of Bunbury’s premier football ground has been boosted with an extra $3 million from the State Government. Funding for the Hands Oval redevelopment has increased to $17.42 million with the extra money from the government’s WA Recovery Plan, increasing its total contribution to $8 million. Construction for the project is set to begin this month, transforming the venue into one of the best sports facilities in regional WA. The redevelopment will include a new pavilion to replace the existing structure at the ground, including 745 seats for spectator viewing, five modern changerooms for players and umpires, four doctor and massage rooms, separate spaces for timekeepers, coaches and media, offices, a boardroom, kiosk, amenities, car park and landscaping upgrades. An artist’s impression of the new pavilion was released in November. Construction is expected to be completed in time for the 2024 SWFL season. Hands Oval is home to the South West Football League headquarters and hosts its grand final each year, with more than 4000 spectators packing the venue in September. The oval, which is also used as the South Bunbury Football Club home ground, previously hosted two AFL pre-season matches, five WA Football League games, two Perth Glory A-League pre-season meets and three domestic one-day cricket clashes. City of Bunbury mayor Jaysen Miguel said the announcement was “yet another exciting step forward” in the highly anticipated project. “This project is not only an important one for Bunbury’s sporting fraternity but the entire community and South West region,” he said. “With preliminary works already underway and the escalation of building costs currently being experienced on infrastructure projects across the country, this additional funding is certainly welcomed and greatly appreciated. “I congratulate and thank the State Government and local member for Bunbury Don Punch for their ongoing commitment, investment and confidence in our wonderful city. “The funding partnership between the city, State and Federal governments and South West Football League for this exciting project proves this is a worthwhile investment for Bunbury.” Mr Punch said the additional funding from the State Government was “an important investment” for the South West region that would help attract key State and national events. “For everyone who enjoys sport, especially football, as either a participant, a supporter or as a spectator, this project will deliver a fantastic asset to support the growth of sport in our region for many years to come,” he said. Sport and Recreation Minister David Templeman said WA had a “flourishing sports community” and the Hands Oval redevelopment would provide a high-quality stadium and facilities. “This $8 million investment will allow West Australians to enjoy more sporting events and activities while providing an economic boost for our State,” he said. The project is also funded by a $4m Federal Government grant, with the remainder from the City of Bunbury and the SWFL.