The future is bright for Dandenong footballers, thanks to an upgrade of sports lighting at George Andrews Reserve, backed by the Allan Labor Government.

Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams today joined City of Greater Dandenong Acting Mayor, Cr Lana Formoso and the Dandenong Thunder Football Club to officially mark the start of the upgrade works, which received a $200,000 investment from the Labor Government.

George Andrews Reserve is a popular Dandenong football hub and is the home ground of National Premier League team Dandenong Thunder and their development programs.

Works at the reserve include installing 500 lux LED lighting on the main pitch, bringing the facilities up to professional competition, and broadcast standards, giving the Dandenong Thunder an opportunity to play in front of a wider audience.

Improved lighting will also increase playable hours at the reserve and give the club a chance to get more locals laced up, on the field and enjoying the health and wellbeing benefits of taking part in the World Game.

The Victorian Budget 2023/24 is providing more than $213 million to deliver and improve community sports infrastructure and support initiatives that boost participation and inclusion in local sports clubs and organisations.

It’s part of more than $1.9 billion invested in community sport and recreation infrastructure since 2014.

Ms Williams acknowledged Greater Dandenong City Council for its investment of more than $500,000 and its commitment to delivering the project.

For more information about infrastructure grant opportunities available through the Victorian Government visit www.sport.vic.gov.au

Quotes attributable to Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams

“George Andrews Reserve is the home of elite football in Dandenong, and I’m very pleased to see we’ll soon have the necessary infrastructure to broadcast our players to a wider audience.”

“Dandenong Thunder Football Club is a mainstay of the National Premier League Victoria, and it’s only right that they are able to host and broadcast games from their home grounds here at the reserve.”

“Improved lighting also means more playable hours at the reserve, and more opportunities for our community to enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits of getting involved with community sport and recreation.”