Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has congratulated the Ensay Recreation Reserve Committee of Management and local volunteers on the successful completion of a major $2.2 million redevelopment, delivered as part of the Black Summer bushfire recovery.
Mr Chester said the project was a significant achievement for the Ensay community, particularly after initial challenges in securing funding.
“We had to fight the bureaucracy to get this project approved, but in the end, we got the decision overturned and secured the funding under the previous Coalition Government in 2022,” Mr Chester said.
“It hasn’t been an easy road, and we’ve had to push hard at every stage, but the final result speaks for itself.”
Mr Chester said the redevelopment had transformed the reserve into a modern, multi-purpose facility that would serve the community for years to come.
“The Ensay Recreation Reserve is much more than a sporting facility; it’s a vital community hub, a place where people come together for events and activities throughout the year, and an important asset in times of emergency,” he said.
“It’s also becoming an increasingly popular camping and tourism destination, so these upgrades will benefit both locals and visitors to the region.”
The works, delivered by local firm CADBUILD, include a new multi-purpose building with updated laundry, shower, bathroom and kitchen facilities, new multi-sport playing surfaces, improved lighting, and upgrades to the angling club facilities.
Mr Chester praised the efforts of the Ensay Recreation Reserve Committee of Management, particularly secretary and project director Kath Morgan, for their dedication in bringing the project to life.
“This project wouldn’t have happened without the determination and hard work of local volunteers who never gave up,” he said.
“The new facilities are already being well used for community events, and the addition of 20 powered caravan sites has proven extremely popular over the warmer months.”
Mr Chester said the redevelopment would deliver long-term benefits for the Ensay community.
“This is an investment that will support local sport, strengthen community connections and enhance tourism opportunities for generations to come,” he said.
The official opening of the upgraded Ensay Recreation Reserve is on Sunday.
