ANZAC Day Opener set for Melville Oval
Published on 23 April 2025
The recently redeveloped Melville Oval is finished and ready for this Friday’s ANZAC Day match with the Hamilton Kangaroos set to take on Portland Tigers for their first home game in Hamilton with free entry for all spectators on the day.
This major project has seen Melville Oval completely reshaped over the last 18 months with careful restoration of the heritage grandstand, addition of a new architecturally designed pavilion, installation of netball courts and upgrades to the oval surface.
Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Dennis Heslin said it will be great to welcome spectators this ANZAC Day.
“What an opportunity to access the newly refurbished facilities and experience the unique and passionate spirit that is an ANZAC Day clash right here in Hamilton,” said Cr Heslin.
“This project has been one of the most significant builds for the Southern Grampians Shire Council with facilities being completely rebuilt by local contractors spearheaded by Ultrabuild, with spotlight focus on user group needs for both women and men’s sports – netball, football and cricket,” said Cr Heslin.
“There are high quality finishes for all changerooms, a new commercial kitchen, kiosk, BBQ and bar, and function space in the new pavilion which has capability to host approximately 100 people.
“The playing surface for the oval has seen significant improvement through reseeding and installation of irrigation.
“The netball courts have also been rebuilt, featuring two new courts finished in acrylic, with undercover spectator seating.
“The build has been an incredible partnership between local people delivering top tier facilities that will be a real standout in western Victoria.”
Hamilton Kangaroos Football and Netball Club President David Hintum said the opportunity to play an ANZAC Day match is special to all Hamilton Kangaroos players.
“As a club, we are so pleased to be back on home soil for Friday’s match against Portland,” said Mr Hintum. “The ability to play on ANZAC Day is something we don’t take for granted and to be able to do that for our first game at our redeveloped home, makes the day extra special.
“The work that the club, Council and Ultrabuild have put in to get the site ready cannot be underestimated as it has been a huge push to finalise works to see us here.
“We thank everyone involved in the project and invite as many locals as possible to come along on Friday to support not only the club, but the town as well,” concluded Mr Hintum.
The site will host an official opening acknowledgment on Friday 25 April 2025 at 3:20pm, with all invited.
“Make sure you get along to an ANZAC Day service near you in the morning, then head to Melville Oval to support the Kangaroos” concluded Cr Heslin.
“Gate entry will be free on Friday so bring the whole family, enjoy country sport, and take a look first-hand at the facilities to which will become synonymous with our sporting community.”