29 Aug 2018 Seymour Telegraph, Seymour VIC (General News) Significant upgrades to Avenel Recreation Reserve have been officially kicked off. The upgrades include new cricket nets, a second asphalt netball court and stage 1 of a skate park. Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes attended Avenel Recreation Reserve to join in the celebrations and said she was grateful to be involved. The redevelopment has been funded by a $100 000 contribution from Strathbogie Shire Council, $17 500 from the Victorian Government, $17 500 contribution from the Beddison family, as well as generous donations and in-kind support from Avenel Action Group and the local cricket club. Avenel is a fantastic community that really gets behind each other and have put in a lot of hard work and years of advocacy to get to where they are today, Ms Symes said. Im very happy to be involved and to have contributed in my small way, but I would like to give the credit to this community; I think they should be very proud of themselves. Avenel Action Group president Jeff Moran said the skate park in particular will be a welcome addition to Avenel. We need things in Avenel that are going to cater for the younger demographic other than the traditional activities which require teams and organisers. The skate park will allow kids to come down in their own time and use it as a meeting place in a safe and accessible area, Mr Moran said.