Any future facility is expected to host training camps and elite pathway programs for the Westfield Matildas, as well as other national and representative teams, and coaching and development programs.
If Greater Shepparton is chosen, it’s difficult to estimate how beneficial it would be for the stocks of soccer in the Goulburn Valley.
It would create a $60million to $80million facility of national prominence locally, generating economic impact, jobs, not to mention indirect benefit.
It’s early days. And it’s difficult to know to what degree the city may be advantaged or disadvantaged in the forthcoming process, being the only regional city to be considered for the future site.
For a city marketing itself as a regional sporting capital, being selected for the location of such a facility would mark a significant win for Greater Shepparton.
If selected, such a facility would create an outstanding addition to the recently developed Sports City precinct.
‘‘The recently redeveloped Shepparton Sports City was a $21million project which included an $11million allocation to the development of regional Victoria’s premier Community Football Complex and any further developments including potential home of the Westfield Matildas would only enhance the region’s reputation as a leader in women’s sport and football,’’ a council statement said.
‘‘Greater Shepparton is known as a regional sporting capital and, therefore, council would be keen to work with interested parties to facilitate any investment with government and Football Victoria to help grow our economy, boost visitation and create more local jobs.’’
Details of the council’s plans, including specific location and how it would tie in with plans to redevelop the Shepparton Sports and Events Centre (formerly stadium) within its Sports City precinct are as yet unclear.
If the future facility, wherever it is chosen to be, is set to act as an administrative headquarters for the state’s governing body, this in itself would be a massive boon for the region in terms of jobs and economic impact.
It’s difficult to know how strong the region’s chances are. For now, it is pleasing Greater Shepparton City Council has decided to throw its hat in the ring.
