Local federal MP Bruce Billson has welcomed the opening of the $12.8 million Monash Peninsula Activity and Recreation Centre (MPARC).

The centre which houses a large fitness centre and two basketball courts was partly funded by the Commonwealth after Mr Billson secured $5 million for the project while a Howard Government minister.

“It’s great to see the work of the university and the Howard Government come to fruition,” Mr Billson said.

“Not only does the new centre house a fitness centre and basketball court, but it’s also home to an exercise physiology lab and a movement and performance studio.

“The new lab allows for VO2 max and lactate testing, movement and video analysis and team sport testing and profiling.

“The new centre demonstrates Monash University’s commitment to Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula.”

“Not only will the complex serve the academic needs of the campus but it will also provide the general public with a major health and fitness centre.”

Mr Billson said although his original vision was for an aquatic centre to be included in the project he was hopeful of assisting the council in its plans for an aquatic centre at Samuel Sherlock Reserve.