WORK is officially underway on upgrades at Ocean Grove Memorial Reserve, delivering on the Albanese Labor Government’s commitment to support grassroots sport and enhance community facilities.

The lighting upgrade at Ocean Grove Memorial Reserve is part of a $750,000 investment that will also contribute to an upgrade of the clubrooms.

Federal Member for Corangamite, Libby Coker, visited the Reserve alongside local junior footballers to mark the installation of the new lighting, highlighting the project’s importance to the community.

“This lighting upgrade is about keeping our local facilities up to standard and ensuring our community has access to safe and modern spaces for sport and recreation – this is particularly important for our junior sporting clubs,” Ms Coker said.

“Memorial Reserve has a proud history, and this project will ensure it continues to be a hub for local sport for years to come.”

The lighting upgrade will provide a significant boost to local sporting groups, including junior football and cricket teams, by enabling evening training sessions and competitions.

Nestled between Draper Street and The Avenue, Memorial Reserve is the birthplace of the Grubbers who formed in 1960 as a breakaway from Barwon Heads – initially fielding only junior teams before launching its first senior side in 1964.

Memorial Reserve witnessed historic moments, including Ocean Grove’s first Bellarine Football League premiership in 1994.

Between 1993 and 2004, the Grubbers played in every grand final, winning eight and becoming a dominant force in local football.

While the facilities at Shell Road offer modern amenities, Memorial Reserve remains cherished for its character, community spirit, and more than five decades of history.