Hockey, netball, soccer and tennis clubs from around the Gloucester Valley could be under the one roof if a renewed push from the Gloucester Panthers is successful. A multi-purpose facility in the heart of town was discussed in 2016 but has been on ice ever since.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
But with the burgeoning growth in clubs and players since that time, Panthers treasurer Dave Keen said a modern and central sports hub for the town is needed.
"We would like to see a multi-purpose area for a few sports clubs, some have come on board and are happy to support," Mr Keen said.
"Our (hockey club) local group of juniors are playing on the grass.
"A proper hockey field for training and games will help them advance in the sport."
The facility would include one hockey field, about six netball courts, soccer field and court facilities.
The Panthers currently play on grass at the Cook Park field.
The club's men's side has dominated the Manning competition for years.
The club fielded a junior club in 2018 for the first time and backed up last year, with some players having to link up with Wingham.
There is a possibility two junior sides could play this season.
Mr Keen highlighted how competitions such as the Gloucester Open AMT and JT tennis tournament draw people to the area.
A new facility would help grow this and encourage others, such as netball and soccer clubs, to hold larger events.
Although most clubs and fields are within a close distance in Gloucester, a suitable location would have to be confirmed.
"We will look to figure out how to have all the sports together in the facility," Mr Keen said.
"If we look at lighting for night time matches, for example, we will need to have it away from the residential area."
During early planning for the facility several years ago, the hockey club applied for grants to get the ball rolling.
With an estimated cost at more than $1 million, successful grant applications would be step one if the facility was to get off the ground.
"We need different levels of government to get on board- we can't fund it ourselves," Mr Keen said.