Celebrations as Donaldson Park Community Hub officially opened

Published on 04 June 2024

The new Donaldson Park Community Hub has been officially opened, with celebrations taking place during the Wedderburn Redbacks first home game of the season.

Opened on 1 June by Member for Ripon Martha Haylett MP and Loddon Shire Council Mayor Gavan Holt, the opening of the $7 million facility follows years of planning.

Speaking at the opening, Cr Holt thanked everyone who contributed to the delivery of the community hub.

“I’d like to acknowledge and thank all those involved in delivering this first-class facility for our community, sporting clubs and user groups,” Cr Holt said.

“This includes the very generous funding from our Australian Government and Victorian Government, without which, the Donaldson Park Community Hub would not have been possible.

“I would also like to acknowledge and thank the contractor Searle Brothers who have done such a fantastic job in delivering this facility,” Cr Holt added.

“As Mayor, a Councillor and community member, seeing this project come to fruition from the very first concept plans through to the magnificent new hub we have today is very special indeed.

“To date, this is the biggest project we have seen in our Shire, and one of which we’re all very proud.”

The new multi-purpose Donaldson Park Community Hub includes:

social rooms
kitchen
meeting room
kiosk

bar
office
change rooms
trainers’ and first aid rooms

In addition to the building itself, the new hub features 40 car parks, landscaping and irrigation, an accessible play space and paths and ramps for the convenience of all community members.

The project was made possible thanks to funding from the Australian Government ($4.53 million), Victorian Government ($1.38 million), Loddon Shire Council ($600,000), Inglewood & Districts Community Enterprises Limited ($100,000) and Harness Racing Victoria ($100,000).

The Donaldson Park Community Asset Committee, user groups and the Wedderburn Development Association collectively provided funding towards the project of $310,000.

The Donaldson Park Steering Committee also provided input throughout the project.