It was announced yesterday the Victorian gov- ernment would put in $445,000 towards the Wyeeboo multi-purpose community facility upgrade.

Club president Shayne Ried said it was “outstanding news”.

“It gets us into the 21st century — we’ve got a fantastic football-netball club, but our facilities have been lacking,” he said.

“This will certainly put us up with all of today’s modern technology.”

Member for Benambra Bill Tilley said the government’s contribution comprised $350,000 from the $1 billion Regional Growth Fund and $95,000 through the Country Football Netball Program.

“The Towong Shire Council will contribute $200,000 and the local community has contributed $100,000, which is a fantastic effort,” he said.

“The new space will have a kitchen, dining area, improved access, a first-aid room, change rooms and storage space for community groups.”

The fund has contributed almost $4.5 million to projects in Towong Shire valued at more than $7.9 million.

Mr Ried said a project working party would be put in place soon “and we hope to have the facilities built as soon as possible”.

It is anticipated the building could be ready for use by next May.

Mr Ried said the new clubhouse would be far more user-friendly for the regular social nights and would complement the Bulldogs’ new netball courts.

“For the ladies in the canteen and kitchen it makes it a lot easier on them,” she said.

“But in terms of families being able to stay down there after games and on Thursday nights, it will be a lot warmer and easier to clean.”

Mr Ried said the club could not be happier.

“We’ve noticed other clubs that have new facilities that their support and the number of people attending games has dramatically improved,” he said.

“We’re very confident it will have the same effect for us.”