Thompson Reserve in Inverloch was lit up with activity last Wednesday, 29 August, as Bass Coast Shire Council and the Inverloch Stars Soccer Club celebrated the completion of the new lighting project with a ceremony at the Reserve.

The new lighting cost approximately $240,000, of which the Inverloch Stars contributed $70,000, Council contributed $70,000 and the State Government provided a grant of $100,000 through the 2016/17 Community Sports Infrastructure Fund.

Bass Coast Deputy Mayor, Cr Brett Tessari explained that this much needed lighting project demonstrates Council’s commitment to developing recreation facilities within Bass Coast.

“Soccer continues to soar in popularity with approximately 450 registered players competing at the three clubs located within Bass Coast Shire, which also includes about 125 registered players here at the Inverloch Stars.

“The new flood lighting will provide the Inverloch Stars with a much needed training venue with lighting that meets the Australian Standards required for soccer training.

Previous to the lighting being installed, the Club was forced to train at different venues across the Shire, which was difficult to manage due to the high number of registered players within their senior and junior playing ranks. The lighting is designed to Australian Standards for soccer training, providing a uniform level of lighting across the two pitches that can accommodate training for all of the teams from the on the one night.

“It is evident from the amount of kids here at training tonight, that the Club is in a strong position and will continue to grow and provide opportunities for the community of Inverloch to play competitive soccer for many years to come,” Cr Tessari said.

Cr Tessari also praised the fundraising efforts of the Club to be able to make such a significant contribution to the project.

“For a relatively young Club it is a sensational effort and a true indication of the strong desire to see soccer flourish in Inverloch,” Cr Tessari concluded.