Farren Hotham
27 September 2025, 2:40 AM
Warren’s new female-friendly amenities at Victoria Park Precinct is more than just toilets and change rooms says Mayor Greg Whitely as he officially opened the new facility on Thursday 25 September.
“They mean women and girls can feel safe, welcome and supported at Victoria Park.
"Having decent facilities encourages more people to take part in sport, recreation and community events, which is good for everyone in Warren Shire,” the Mayor said.
"If you've been here on a Wednesday afternoon lately you'll see how well this park is used, with girls right in the mix of every sport."
Council’s General Manager Gary Woodman emphasised the importance of Council facilities that meet the needs of everyone who uses them.
“Projects like this break down barriers and make it easier for women and girls to take part in sport and community life.
"With support from the NSW Office of Sport, we’ve delivered facilities that reflect the needs of our community and create a precinct everyone can be proud of,” said Mr Woodman.
''I think the fantastic work by Indigenous artist Peter Mackay and the work by leading group Warran Widji Arts really makes this look classy.''
''The amenities are right in the middle of the Netball Courts so that’s so good, Rugby Union, Rugby League players will also take great benefit.'' he told the Western Plains App.
Barwon State MP Roy Butler said it was a true community collaboration.
‘’Builder Nathan O’Neill has done a great job, and so has local artist Peter Mackay, who created some vibrant indigenous artworks."
On the doors are Mr Mackay's original designs of local animals and birds, each hand-painted by himself, with some help from local young people.
The $702,500 project was jointly funded through a $500,000 grant from the NSW Government’s Female Friendly Community Sport Facilities and Lighting Upgrades Program and a $202,549 contribution from Council to create safe, inclusive and welcoming spaces for all.
Cr Pauline Serdity with Julie Whiteley and Judy Wrigley at the opening last week.
The new facility delivers:
Mr Woodman said the project aligns with the NSW Government’s Her Sport Her Way strategy to increase female participation in community sport.
Consultation with local clubs and schools identified strong demand, and participation by women and girls at Victoria Park is projected to grow by 12% annually as a result.
''The Female-Friendly Amenities Building signals a new chapter for a safer, more inclusive Victoria Park Precinct that celebrates local culture, supports gender equity and strengthens community connections,'' Mayor Whiteley said.