Council hits ‘home run’ with new lighting at Robinsons Reserve
Published on 16 July 2021
Talk about hitting a home run!
Frankston City Council and the Federal Government via Sports Australia will contribute $180,000 and $190,000 each respectively towards an exciting project to deliver new lighting at Robinsons Reserve, Frankston South – home to the Frankston Baseball Club in winter and Frankston Softball Association in summer.
Mayor Kris Bolam joined Senator for Victoria, David Van, the Federal Member for Dunkley, Peta Murphy, the State Member for Frankston, Paul Edbrooke MP, Councillors Brad Hill and Claire Harvey, and sporting club representatives for a sod turning ceremony to mark the start of works for the new lights.
Mayor Bolam said the $370,000 project will deliver new sports lighting at the Baseball Diamond to 250 lux at Robinsons Reserve that is fit for purpose and meets Australian Standards. The sports lighting will ensure that the diamond can be used by the Baseball Club for training during winter.
Mayor Bolam added: “It’s when Council works collaboratively with the community and other levels of Government that we achieve great outcomes.”
Senator Van said: “Sporting clubs are the lifeblood of communities and underpin their sense of cohesion and cooperation – importantly they help people to feel part of something. Congratulations to everyone involved. We’re proud to be part of this.”
Ms Murphy praised all those involved, adding: “Congratulations to everyone at the Frankston Baseball Club – you worked hard to make this happen. I can’t wait to be out here again when the lights are on.”
South Ward Cr Brad Hill added: “Frankston City is on the move – we are spending big on infrastructure, particularly with new facilities, renewals and upgrades at our much loved sporting grounds across the municipality. It’s fantastic to see Robinsons Park join the list and take the next step. I look forward to seeing Baseball Club members use the lights to train during winter and hear about the Club’s success as it goes from strength to strength.”
Frankston Baseball Club formed in 1945 and is affectionately known as the Tomatoes. The club fields nine teams – four Senior and five Junior teams. During their winter months of play the Tomatoes are currently unable to hold training sessions in the evening due to no lighting at the Reserve.
South Ward Cr Claire Harvey said: “Community sport acts as important glue that holds our society together – from providing vital social interaction, community connections, exercise and the opportunity to get out and enjoy our wonderful open spaces. Sport has it all!”
Cr Harvey also acknowledged representatives and hardworking committee members from Frankston Baseball Club, particularly long serving President Mark O’Brien, and Frankston Softball Association, and Council staff who worked on the vital project.
Mr O’Brien said the sod turning event was a wonderful occasion for the club, particularly as it celebrated its 75th year, adding: “I extend sincere thanks to all who have made this possible.”
“It is important that you realise that through your efforts you have enhanced opportunities for people, particularly young people, to participate in sporting activities and have ensured that we can continue to thrive, grow and maximise the potential of Robinsons Reserve to the Frankston Baseball Club, Frankston Softball Association and the broader community,” Mr O’Brien said.
Mr O’Brien concluded: “Let there be light!”
Works to install the new lights are scheduled to be completed by November 2021.