Crows need new nest

A murder of crows took over a Baw Baw Shire Council meeting last week in a united call for desperately needed oval resurfacing works at Longwarry recreation reserve.

Navy, red and gold colours dominated the special council meeting with more than 100 Longwarry Football and Netball Club players, members and supporters calling for council to commit funds to the project.

Junior Crows players sent a powerful message to councillors when they trained in Civic Park ahead of the meeting.

Club president Steve Tuite reinforced his submission to council two years ago that outlined a wish list of urgent works at the reserve including a new playing surface, lighting, netball court resurfacing, upgraded cricket nets and fencing.

Mr Tuite said the club was the “heart and soul” of the town but was treated like the “ugly duckling” of the shire.

He said grounds at Neerim South, Buln Buln, Bellbird Park, Nilma-Darnum and Warragul all had upgrades but there had been nothing for Longwarry.

“We have past players with children playing now and there has been no change to the facilities since they played.

“We hosted a grand final in 2007, yet we are now the worst ground in the league,” he said.

Mr Tuite said the reserve was used by football, netball, cricket and angling clubs.

He said council needed to develop a plan for future development.

“Let’s get a plan in place, designs and costs so we can get some money in the budget.