David Ashwood, Councillor Angela Long and Nick Thompson

Cr Angela Long - Cleeland Ward (Council News article July 2022)

David Ashwood, Councillor Angela Long and Nick Thompson

The baseball facilities at Robert Booth Reserve have undergone continuous improvement with support from Council, the State Government, and volunteers from both the Dandenong Angels and Mulgrave Rebels baseball clubs. The baseball facilities are among the best in the state and one of the few fields south or east of Melbourne. 

The upgrade of the flood lights to the infield to 350 lux, and the outfield to 250 lux at a cost of around $800,000 has enabled the clubs to conduct night games and extend training times. A recent fencing overhaul, including higher fencing at the backstop, and bull pits cost $80,000. This investment has improved the safety for players, spectators and other users of the reserve, as well as improving the general look of the facility. 

In September 2018, the new pavilion at the reserve was officially opened, replacing a very old and tired one. This new facility has enabled both clubs to operate and manage their clubs in a more professional manner. 

Mulgrave Rebels play in the summer competition, from October to March, and have had an historical year in 2021–22, with the top four sides participating in finals and earning a promotion to the Premier League Division 1. 

Dandenong Angels play in the winter competition, from April to September, and have managed to kick off their season this year after heavily affected seasons in 2020 and 2021. Between 2016–19 the Angels won four consecutive A grade flags following a 52-year A grade premiership drought. 
Both clubs are looking for new players from juniors to seniors and can be contacted via: 

    Dandenong Angels President, David Ashwood at davidash.wood@bigpond.com 
    Mulgrave Rebels President, Nick Thompson at president@mulgraverebels.com 

If you need to contact me on any Council related issues, please email at angela.long@cgd.vic.gov.au or phone on 0466 004 616.