• DIVERSITY: Provision of a range of sporting and recreation facilities to ensure a variety of sporting and recreation opportunities. Facilities will cater for different levels of ability and need, be accessible to and encourage people of all ages, genders, interests, abilities, and cultural backgrounds.
• ADAPTABLE: Facilities will be designed and managed to meet specific user requirements whilst also being flexible to meet changing community needs and aspirations. Provision of sport and recreation facilities are multi-use and support shared use.
• PARTICIPATION: Development of facilities and spaces that will facilitate increased sport and active recreation participation.
• SUSTAINABLE: Prioritise sustainability through efficient water management, biodiversity enhancement through native plants, green spaces and revegetation, and the sustainable design and management of sport and recreation facilities.
• STRATEGIC ALIGNMENT: Sport and recreation facilities are strategically supported by local or regional sporting plans and developed in accordance with peak bodies’ preferred standards and guidelines.
• PARTNERSHIPS: Collaborative partnering approach with community, government agencies, peak sporting organisations and private sector for the planning, provision and management of sport and recreation facilities.

The reserve is situated on the corner of Ventnor Road and Phillip Island Road in Cowes and consists of two land parcels, Hilton Chadwick Reserve and an adjoining parcel to the east.

The master plan includes various facilities such as an aquatic and leisure centre, football and cricket ovals, soccer pitches, netball and tennis courts, a skate park, playspace, off-leash dog park, bushland areas, and more.

The project was initiated to address the current and future sporting and recreation needs of Phillip Island and its surrounding communities. It aims to create a well-structured plan for the reserve for years to come.

The project involved extensive consultation with local sporting clubs, community groups, and the broader Bass Coast community through in-person meetings and public exhibitions.

The estimated cost for the full implementation of the master plan is $115 million. Council will need external funding to recognise the entire master plan delivery.

Capital works projects within the shire are guided by Council's adopted 10- year Long Term Financial Plan (LTFP) 2021–31. Currently, the actions identified in the Phillip Island Recreation Reserve Master Plan, adopted in September 2023, are not included in the LTFP. The LTFP is scheduled for review in 2025.

Projects are grouped into three categories:

• Short Term (1 to 10 years)
• Medium Term (11 to 20 years)
• Long Term (21+ years)

These timeframes are only a guide. If funding opportunities arise, we can deliver the projects sooner.

Rezoning of the site is not required for the progress of the master plan to continue. According to the Bass Coast Planning Scheme, land currently zoned for farming can support recreational activities, with some requiring permits and others not. The rezoning of the site is identified as a medium-term action within the adopted Master Plan and will be addressed at a later stage. This phased approach allows development of the recreational aspects to proceed without immediate zoning changes, ensuring that the site can evolve in line with community needs and the Master Plan’s vision.

You can find out about the Phillip Island Aquatics and Leisure Centre project here: Phillip Island Aquatics and Leisure Centre | Engage Bass Coast