First sod to be turned for new Deledio pavilion in Dunolly
Published on 06 August 2026
After more than two decades of community advocacy, the first sod for the new pavilion at Deledio Recreation Reserve will be turned on Saturday 8 August at 12noon.
The sod‑turning celebration will take place during the MCDFNL Round 17 match between Dunolly and Talbot, marking a major milestone for the project.
The new pavilion will replace the ageing 1977 facility, which has reached the end of its useful life and no longer meets contemporary standards for safety, accessibility, or functionality.
The project is jointly funded, with $1.5 million from the Federal Government, $1 million from the Victorian Government’s Regional Community Sports and Infrastructure Program, and a further $500,000 contribution from Council.
In April, following a public tender process, Council awarded the design and construction contract to MKM Building Group Pty Ltd.
Deledio Recreation Reserve is a vital community asset used by local sporting clubs, schools, and community groups.
The new pavilion will feature modern, inclusive and accessible change rooms, amenities, undercover social and viewing areas, first aid facilities, sustainable design elements, including rainwater harvesting and solar power.
Kitchen and community hospitality facilities will also be included in the project – but further funding will be sought to deliver the fit-out of these areas. The Dunolly Recreation Reserve user groups are currently fundraising for this element of the project.
The pavilion will be positioned closer to the netball courts to improve access for all users, building on the major upgrade delivered in 2024 when two new netball courts were constructed at the Reserve through funding from the Victorian Government and Council.
The project is scheduled for completion early 2027.
Senator Jana Stewart, Senator for Victoria:
“Growing up in regional Victoria, I know how much a facility like this means to a regional community. This is not just a change room, it's where the Dunolly Eagles' footy and netball clubs raise their kids, where volunteers spend their weekends, and where Dunolly comes together.
“This project is a fantastic example of what Federal, State and Local Government can achieve when we work together. I'm proud the Albanese Labor Government is backing this project, and I can't wait to see it finished.”
Member for Ripon Martha Haylett:
“This is a huge milestone for Dunolly. After years of tireless advocacy, we are so much closer to the community getting the modern pavilion they deserve at Deledio Reserve.”
“I want to thank the hard-working local volunteers who have championed this project, including Sonya Richards-Stuart, Kath Ryan, Steve Dellevedova, and Ian Arnold.”
“I’m so proud to have worked with these local legends to make this upgrade happen. I cannot wait to see it all complete.”
Central Goldfields Shire Mayor Cr Ben Green:
“With the current facilities well beyond useability, the Dunolly community has worked tirelessly over many years to secure upgraded clubrooms. Council has partnered closely with the Deledio Pavilion Reference Group to shape the concept design and advocate for the funding needed to bring this project to life.
“I also want to acknowledge the sustained efforts of Ward Councillor and former Mayor Cr Liesbeth Long, whose leadership has helped guide this project to this point. We look forward to seeing the upgraded pavilion support the wider Dunolly district for many years to come.”
Dunolly Recreation Reserve Committee of Management Treasurer & Secretary Kath Ryan:
“The Dunolly Recreation Reserves Committee of Management is pleased to see Stage One Deledio Community Pavilion begin construction.
“Over a number of decades, our committee and user groups have advocated to state and federal governments and government departments to invest in this sorely needed community hub, as our current pavilion has deteriorated to the point where its structural safety is in question.
“This new pavilion will not have the required size in its social area for our user groups or broader community, so our committee is dedicated to advocating for future funding to extend its size, and as stage one will not include a functional kitchen or bar, we will continue our grant writing efforts to ensure our community of Dunolly has the Community Hub it needs and deserves.”