Grant applications submitted for Jubilee and Talbot

Published on 10 September 2026

Council has submitted grant applications for two major sporting venues in the Shire, seeking support through the Victorian Government’s Local Sports Infrastructure Fund for the redevelopment of Jubilee Oval and a lighting upgrade at Talbot Recreation Reserve.

Funding for the Jubilee Oval redevelopment would transform Jubilee Oval into a high-quality multi-use sporting facility supporting both soccer and cricket.

The project includes oval reconfiguration, relocation of the hard cricket wicket, irrigation and drainage upgrades, turf resurfacing, and associated infrastructure to improve safety, accessibility and year-round use.

The redevelopment would provide Maryborough Soccer Club with a permanent home ground while maintaining the oval’s important role in supporting junior cricket.

The total project cost for the redevelopment is $664,700, with $498,532 requested as part of the grant application. If successful, Council will also contribute to the project.

The Talbot Oval sports lighting upgrade has been submitted as part of the Community Sports Lighting funding stream and will replace the reserve’s existing non-compliant sports lighting with four new 30-metre poles and LED luminaires.

The upgrade will improve lighting levels from the current standard to competition-standard lighting, supporting football, cricket, training, cross-training and broader community recreation.

The project will create safer and more flexible opportunities for evening sport and physical activity.

The total project cost for the project is $500,461 with $250,000 requested as part of the grant application. If successful, Council will also contribute to the project, with the Talbot Football Netball Club to also contribute.

The grant applications are expected to be announced by the Victorian Government in October.

Central Goldfields Shire Director Assets and Planning Bhavin Mehta said the projects represent important investments in the future of local sport and community wellbeing.

“We know these projects are much‑needed by the community - the Maryborough Soccer Club is still without a long‑term permanent home, and user groups at Talbot Oval continue to request compliant lighting.

“Upgrading Jubilee Oval and Talbot Recreation Reserve will give our clubs safer, more modern and more accessible facilities, ensuring these much‑loved venues can continue to support strong participation for years to come.

“We look forward to the Victorian Government’s consideration of these applications and are hopeful of good news in October.”