The $2.2 million project included new player amenities, universal toilets, improved kitchen facilities and expanded social spaces to support local sporting clubs and the wider community.

The project also involved significant improvements to safety and traffic flow with a formalised entry and exit road, expanded parking and dedicated accessible parking space, a new turnaround area and a pathway around the oval.

The City has also undertaken separate playground renewal works at the reserve, adding accessible play equipment, monkey bars and extra swings to ensure more members of the community have the chance to have fun.

Home to the Ocean Grove Cobras Football Club and the Collendina Cricket Club, the reserve upgrades will help encourage and create opportunities for people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds to participate in community support.

This project was backed by $979,616 in funding from the City, $642,000 from the Victorian Government and $580,000 from the Australian Government.

The combined investment highlights what can be achieved when all levels of government work together to support growing communities.

The upgrades also reinforce the City’s commitment to improving gender equity and accessibility by providing facilities that better support participation and ensure Collendina Reserve remains a welcoming and functional community hub for many years to come.

Connewarre Ward Councillor Elise Wilkinson 

Whether it’s footballers, cricketers, volunteers, officials or spectators, these upgrades mean more opportunities and better experiences for everyone involved in local sport.

Sporting clubs are often the heart of our communities, having spaces that are inclusive and accessible makes sure everyone feels welcome to participate.

We know that sport is great for physical fitness, but it can also boost our mental health. By providing better infrastructure for sport, we are directly investing in the wellbeing of our community.

Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant MP

Congratulations to the Ocean Grove Cobras Football Club and Collendina Cobras Cricket Club for their dedication, advocacy, and commitment in bringing this project to life.

I am proud to see the reserve upgrades deliver a safer environment for players, volunteers, and the broader community, with the new pavilion and facilities creating more opportunities for Bellarine residents to participate in local sport and supporting clubs to grow and thrive.

Federal Member for Corangamite Libby Coker 

Local sporting clubs are at the heart of our community, bringing people together, keeping people active and creating a strong sense of belonging.

These upgrades at Collendina will make a real difference for players, volunteers, and families by providing modern, accessible and inclusive facilities that everyone can enjoy.

I’m proud to see all levels of government working together to deliver infrastructure that supports participation, improves accessibility and helps local clubs continue to thrive for years to come.