Grand old ‘Gatha stand needs some TLC

LEONGATHA’S grandstand has witnessed over 100 years of the town’s sporting and social history, but requires an upgrade to ensure it continues to do so well into the future.

While in good health for her age, the centenarian is beginning to show deterioration in places.

The Leongatha Recreation Reserve Committee of Management feels a responsibility to ensure the long-term viability of the stand, and is working to make sure the refurbishment project is ready to go should an opportunity arise to apply for state or federal government funding.

That preparation includes obtaining quotes for the necessary repairs and having applications ready.

“It’s falling into a bit of disrepair, a lot of the entrance steps need replacing, and the outside requires repainting, new spouting and fascia boards,” committee secretary Graeme Winkler said.

The roof is structurally sound but needs a clean.

Wire netting, intended to prevent birds nesting inside the stand and fouling the seats, is damaged in places and must be replaced.

The stand’s wooden steps are beginning to warp and it is possible to feel movement under foot.

“There’s a bit of concern about some of the balustrades on the sides of the grandstand that are a bit low,” Graeme said, adding that nobody has fallen.

Importantly, no major structural work is required.

“The grandstand itself is in solid condition and the seating’s good still, but it’s starting to look a bit shabby and the finances to repair it are out of the reach of the Recreation Reserve Committee,” Graeme said.

He explained there is just enough funding to keep everything going, with the recreation reserve home to many local organisations.

They include the Gippsland Historical Automobile Club, Leongatha and District Netball Association, Leongatha Football Netball Club, Leongatha Junior Football Club, South Gippsland Umpires Association, South Gippsland Splash - indoor swimming pool, along with the local tennis, croquet, table tennis, Little Athletics and Golf Clubs and the small bore shooting range.  

“Every weekend there are people everywhere,” Graeme said of the recreation reserve.

He noted the grandstand is more than a spot from which to view the footy, incorporating change rooms underneath, and function rooms at the rear.

“There wouldn’t be a week go by without an event in the function room,” Graeme said.

There were hopes of the grandstand getting the loving touches it needs ahead of its 100th birthday last April so she would be at her best for the occasion, but along with a lack of funding for the works, Covid ensured no celebration was possible.

“The local shire’s onboard now, which is really good, and Cr John Schelling has joined a subcommittee we formed to get the works happening,” Graeme said.

Member for Gippsland South Danny O’Brien has thrown his support behind the call to rejuvenate the grandstand.

Danny recently met with representatives of the Recreation Reserve Committee of Management and the reserve’s user groups to discuss what is required.

“There is no need for a major upgrade, but the Committee of Management recognises that it needs a coat of paint, some safety features and some actions that will preserve the grandstand for future generations,” Danny said.

He reflected on the stand’s history and local significance.

“Leongatha grandstand is an iconic part of town that’s been the scene of many famous victories for the Parrots over the years, but also for cricket, athletics and many other sports and activities, and it’s very much loved,” Danny said. 

He added that he will pursue funding through the state government.