Mitchell Shire councillors awarded a contract sum of $830,232.17 (inc. GST) to City of Whittlesea-based contractor Field Form in a council meeting on Monday, July 21.
The works involve an upgrade of the netball courts and lighting at the Broadford sports facility, an effort to increase the participation of women and girls at the reserve.
Mitchell Shire Mayor John Dougall said the project drew on a commitment made by council.
“This project is part of council’s commitment to creating safe, inclusive and accessible spaces that encourage physical activity and community participation,” Cr Dougall said.
“Increasing opportunities for women and girls to take part in sport is a key priority for council, as it supports broader goals around equity, health, wellbeing and social connection.”
In February this year, council announced it had been awarded $967,250, through the Federal Government’s Play Our Way program, to complete works at the reserve, with $200,000 to be contributed by council.
The entire project will deliver two new netball courts with compliant lighting, and a play space to increase recreation opportunities for local families.
During the recent council meeting, Cr Bob Humm raised concerns about the lack of local involvement in the project.
“I’m a bit disappointed that no contractor from the Mitchell Shire has put in for the contract,” Cr Humm said.
“I just hope that our contractors within the shire look at putting in and tendering for some of these contracts because they’re quite large, and I’d like to make sure that funding gets rotated around the shire.”
Cr Dougall said council selected the contractor after a public tender process.
“Field Form was selected through a public tender process that attracted nine submissions,” he said.
“Their proposal offered the best balance of experience, quality, value and delivery methodology. They have a strong track record in delivering similar sports infrastructure projects and received positive endorsements through referee checks.
“While Field Form is responsible for selecting and managing its subcontractors and suppliers, council encourages contractors to consider local economic benefit where possible as part of project delivery.”
Work is planned to begin after the netball season in October, and is expected to be completed by the end of March 2026.
A separate procurement process for a new play space adjacent to the courts is planned for later this year.
“This is an exciting step forward for Broadford’s netball community and for families who use Harley Hammond Reserve,” Cr Dougall said.
“Council looks forward to delivering this important project in partnership with the community.”
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