WANDONG, VIC. — Mitchell Shire Council is progressing plans for a $370,000 lighting upgrade at LB Davern Reserve in Wandong, which will support local sporting participation and help meet the needs of the region’s growing population.
The project includes a $250,000 contribution from the Victorian Government through the 2026–27 Local Sports Infrastructure Fund – Community Sports Lighting program, confirmed by Lauren Kathage MP, State Member for Yan Yean, at a funding announcement event at LB Davern Reserve.
Council is contributing a further $120,000 towards the project.
The upgrade will deliver four new light towers and modern LED lighting, providing a minimum lighting level of 100 lux at LB Davern Reserve, the only oval in Wandong.
The improved lighting will support increased participation in junior football, provide better conditions for training and playing, and help accommodate Wandong’s growing population.
The upgraded oval will also be able to operate as an overflow facility for neighbouring towns experiencing rapid population growth, helping maximise the use of sporting facilities across the shire.
Mitchell Shire Mayor Councillor John Dougall said the upgrade would help create more opportunities for the Wandong community to participate in local sport.
“This project is about more than just better lighting. It’s about making sure our sporting facilities can keep pace with a growing community and give more people the opportunity to get involved in local sport,” he said.
“As the only oval in Wandong, LB Davern Reserve plays an important role in our local sporting community. This upgrade will help support junior football, improve conditions for training and playing, and give our clubs greater opportunities to grow.
“It will also provide additional capacity for neighbouring towns experiencing similar growth, helping us make the most of our sporting facilities across the shire.
“I’d like to thank the Victorian Government and Lauren Kathage MP for their contribution towards this project, alongside Council’s investment. This funding will help deliver improved facilities for local players and the wider community.”
The construction tender has been released, with a contractor appointment expected in December 2026 and construction anticipated to commence in February or March 2027.
