The $10 million figure is the same amount the council secured 12 months ago for its city centre redevelopment.

The council is applying to the same funding pool – the National Stronger Regions – with successful applicants to be announced in July, which is being widely tipped as the early election date.

Baranduda Fields is the biggest project in contention from the Indi electorate with Towong Shire bidding for $800,000 for a Corryong major events centre on the site of the recently demolished recreation reserve grandstand, and $495,000 for a road project at Bellbridge.

Wangaratta has re-submitted its $4.4 million aquatics project after being overlooked in round two and Wangaratta Turf Club is chasing $2.2 million for further upgrades.

Baranduda Fields was identified as a sporting precinct more than a decade ago and two years ago council released a 20-year blueprint for existing sporting facilities.

If the funding application is successful, two ovals for Australian Rules football and cricket, two netball courts and associated amenities will be built at Baranduda Fields.

Acting chief executive Trevor Ierino said the focus for stage one was to support growth in junior and female sports participation.

“This is a major long-term project of the council,” he said.

“It comes after extensive consultation and investigation locally and at state and national level and Baranduda Fields has been part of the discussion as we undertake master planning of all our sport precincts.

“While we provide for the growth and demand in our city, we will continue to deliver on the priority projects for our existing sporting facilities which were identified as part of the master planning undertaken last year.

“The funding we are seeking is federal funding and is part of our budget planning.

“We will be also be seeking other funding partners.”