Colac’s Central Reserve has captured the attention of Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson, who visited Colac in July to inspect the new playing surface.
Having heard the surface was ‘one of the best in country Victoria’, Clarkson requested a meeting to find out more about the resurfacing project.
Mr Clarkson was doing his homework ahead of a possible future resurfacing of Hawthorn’s training ground, Waverley Park.
Colac Otway Shire Council’s Recreation, Arts and Culture Manager Ian Seuren said the Central Reserve delivered on the Hawks coach’s expectations.
“We talked Alastair through the resurfacing project and what was involved at each step.
“The fact that he was interested in seeing the Central speaks volumes about the quality playing surface we now have at our premier sporting reserve.”
Mr Clarkson said he was very impressed with the quality of the reserve.
“I found that it certainly lived up to its reputation as one of the best playing surfaces in the state.
“Notwithstanding the fact that we’ve managed to recruit two pretty handy players in our Captain Luke Hodge and Jonathan Simpkin from the region, Hawthorn Football Club has again reason to thank the Colac community, in particular the Shire, who were very helpful and receptive during my visit.”
Mr Seuren said he took the opportunity to tell Clarkson about Council’s future plans to host VFL matches and a possible AFL practice match.
“Our ability to host higher level football at the Central Reserve hinges on our ability to attract government funding for a major upgrade of the built infrastructure, including the change rooms.
“We’ll be pushing hard for this funding in the lead up to the federal election.”
