CORANGAMITE Labor MP Libby Coker has pledged her support for the development of new basketball courts on the Bellarine as demand for additional facilities continues to grow.

In February, Ms Coker met with Bellarine Peninsula Basketball Association President Gary Thompson and representatives from Basketball Victoria. She has also held discussions with local club presidents about the urgent need for additional facilities.

Following these discussions, Ms Coker has committed to:

• Assisting in the development of a formal business case and preparation of funding submissions, after the election; and
• Advocating to all levels of government to prioritise investment in basketball infrastructure alongside other key regional projects.

Ms Coker stressed the importance of a united approach from the basketball community on the Bellarine Peninsula.

“Basketball is one of the fastest-growing sports in our region, and I understand the clear need for more courts,” Ms Coker said.

“The first step is a strong, community-backed business case. Once we have that, we can work on securing the necessary funding.”

“I look forward to continuing to work closely with the Bellarine Peninsula Basketball Association, Basketball Victoria, and all levels of government to help bring this vision to life.”

Ms Coker committed to continuing to work closely with the State Member for the Bellarine, Alison Marchant, and acknowledged her work with basketball clubs across the Bellarine.

This pledge builds on Federal Labor’s investment in the Armstrong Creek Sports Centre, a four-court facility set to begin construction next month.