Federal Member for Dunkley Bruce Billson MP and Frankston City’s outgoing Mayor Darrel Taylor today joined members of the Ballam Park Athletics Centre to turn the first sod as part of the $400,000 resurfacing upgrade.

The Commonwealth Government provided $200,000 for the project. This sod turning marks another delivery of an election commitment for Dunkley.

Mr Billson said the track upgrade will ensure the venue can continue to operate long into the future, supporting athletes in the community.

“I am pleased to join Cr Taylor and the athletics community to turn the first sod on this vital community project,” Mr Billson said.

“The Ballam Park Athletics Track is the home of Athletics in Frankston including the Frankston Little Athletics and Athletics Clubs, Mornington Peninsula Athletics Club and the Victorian Masters (Peninsula Division) Club.

“The vital upgrade will ensure athletes of all ages can train, keep fit and healthy and continue to enjoy this great community facility.”

Frankston City Council outgoing Mayor Darrel Taylor said he was very happy to see work starting on this important project which is expected to be completed in the New Year.

“It’s great being here today to see the start work to deliver improved facilities for the community,” Cr Taylor said.

“The Ballam Park Running Track was synthetically surfaced in 1999/2000 and with more than 10,000 people using it each year, the upgrade is necessary to ensure our elite athletes have a high quality surface to train on.

“The facilities now include an all-weather synthetic track with electronic timing and lighting for twilight meetings, club pavilion, modern change rooms and showers, an excellent weight training room, a large function room, throwing and jumping facilities, and equipment and implements for track and field events.

“The surrounding parklands also provide a great place for families to get together and enjoy the outdoors.

“Frankston City Council has contributed $200,000 towards the project and I thank Mr Billson and the Federal Government for their support on the project,” Cr Taylor said.