Kevin Sharkey, Castlemaine
I reject the assertion made by John A Lewis (Opinions, Mail, Friday June 5) that my view of the redevelopment of the public recreation precinct of the Camp Reserve is due to a “common ignorance of” its history. Rather, I view the redevelopment as an opportunity to promote the living history of Castlemaine, and to give due respect to its Football Club founded in 1859, the third oldest football club in the world.
I’m happy to agree that the best place to view sporting and other activities is from the wing on the Gingell St side of the ground. However, a count during the senior game against Broadford recently found a total of two people watching the game in their car with all other cars parked on the “hill” empty. This area is currently used as a carpark during games and could certainly be used as a more effective viewing platform. I encourage people to view the short animation on YouTube (search for: Camp Reserve Castlemaine, Development). This artist’s impression shows the “hill” would remain largely intact. Most of the current lines of sight to the oval will be retained. In addition, the same “hill” will become a great place to watch netball being played on the new courts.
The loss of two established red gums does not preclude council from making every effort to not only retain the historical significance of this area but also enhance it. This could include new signage providing information and encouragement for town folk and visitors to explore the wider Camp Reserve. Most importantly, this should not be limited to the significance of trees, buildings and other features in Goldsmith Crescent and beyond from the perspective of Colonial Settlement, but also to the Dja Dja Wurrung heritage of the area.
Of the many other advantages that would result from the proposed upgrade, as listed on the council website: https://shape.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/CampReserve, the most persuasive for me is the better integration of the football and netball playing areas. It will no longer be women playing netball on the court out the back and out of sight, but rather as equal partners with the men playing football. This is entirely consistent with its name, Castlemaine Football Netball Club. The provision of all abilities and all gender changerooms to be used by a wide range of sporting and other community groups is vitally important.
In summary, this development provides a bridge from the colonial era use of Camp Reserve to its use today as a modern sporting precinct and should be supported by the broader Castlemaine community.
Editor’s Note: The latest amendment before council seeks to protect three trees along the perimeter of the reserve, not to two redgums.