With a federal election looming in May, the future of Somerville Recreation Reserve has become a political talking point — with two vastly different funding promises now on the table.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Catherine King, has pledged $250,000 towards the replacement of the reserve’s ageing netball change rooms, which have served local teams in a “temporary” capacity for around 20 years. The facilities currently offer minimal space and just one external toilet, far below the standards needed for the growing number of female participants.
Minister King was joined by Federal Labor candidate for Flinders, Sarah Race, at the announcement, alongside representatives from the Somerville Football Netball Club (SFNC), Somerville Junior Netball Club (SJNC), and Somerville Cricket Club (SCC).
However, the Labor pledge has been dramatically overshadowed by a $5 million commitment from Liberal MP and incumbent for Flinders, Zoe McKenzie, who is contesting the same seat. McKenzie’s pledge would be the largest financial contribution ever made to the Somerville Recreation Reserve — but it’s conditional on the Coalition forming government after the May federal election.
The competing promises place the future of the reserve — and its long-awaited upgrades — firmly in the hands of voters.
The announcements coincide with the release of the Draft Somerville Recreation Reserve Master Plan, developed by Simon Leisure Consulting and funded by the State Government. The plan, now open for public feedback, outlines future priorities and infrastructure needs for the site.
Community consultation is open until 20 April 2025:
shape.mornpen.vic.gov.au/draft-somerville-recreation-reserve-master-plan
Both major parties have now visited the site in recent months. In 2024, the reserve was inspected by Premier Jacinta Allan in June and State Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence in July, reinforcing the reserve’s significance to local sport and the broader Mornington Peninsula community.
Residents and sporting groups are encouraged to contribute feedback on the master plan to help shape the long-term vision for the precinct.
STPL News will continue to monitor election developments and the progress of the reserve’s planning and funding.
