A contract to redevelop the onsite female changerooms has just been awarded to local firm CIQ Construction Management.

The $600,000 upgrades to the changerooms are part of the Victorian Government’s $6.6 million investment into upgrading facilities at Mars Stadium as part of the Stage 2 facility upgrades.

The Stage 2 projects includes upgrading the venue entrance, additional toilets, improving accessibility, improving standing areas, and developing permanent food and beverage areas.

Ballarat is a major regional centre in Victoria and the Victorian Government has identified Mars Stadium as a vital sport and recreation asset.

This project will enhance Mars Stadium’s standing as the premier sporting venue in Western Victoria.

Construction on the changeroom upgrades is scheduled to commence within weeks and be completed by December 2020, in time for the AFLW 2021 premiership season.

The Western Bulldogs has a strong presence in Ballarat and have played five AFL games at Mars Stadium since 2017. Due to COVID-19 no games were possible during 2020 AFL season, but the club aims to be back in 2021.

The construction of the female changerooms will generate five jobs and more than 90 percent of the materials used will be locally sourced, providing an economic and jobs boost to the region.

The Precinct development is a joint project with the City of Ballarat.