Ararat Rural City is finalising tender documents for the Olver Stand upgrades at Alexandra Oval.
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Chief executive Dr Tim Harrison said part of the project includes restoring the stand's facade back to the original look.
"Upgrades will include the rooms at the rear to house a training area, memorabilia display, family room and female-family friendly amenities," he said.
"A stand-alone building to house a kiosk and netball administration office will also be constructed.
"The events space will see the removal of the red seats at the front of the Olver Stand, replacing them with terraced seating. There will also be areas built to accommodate pop-up marquees for events."
Ararat Football Netball Club's Michael Spalding has worked on the history of both the club and the Alexandra Oval precinct for more than 20 years.
"The history behind the grandstand is very interesting," he said.
"Looking back through old newspapers and history, I have found the grandstand was originally built in 1902 and was on site at the Recreation Reserve, Kakoda Park.
"In September, 1920, it was decided to move the grandstand to the new sports ground in readiness for the opening day on Boxing Day."
Spalding said it wasn't until 1982 the grandstand received it's current name, the 'Olver Stand'.
"In early April that year the Ararat Football Club recommend the grandstand at Alexandra Oval be named the Olver Stand after club stalwarts Mr Bill 'Buff' Olver and Mrs June Olver," he said.
"The grandstand would have lots of special memories for the people of Ararat - from whichever sport they were watching or participating in at the oval.
"We have old club photos of past premierships with players and supporters on the grandstand - they are special pieces of history and memorabilia and some of my favourites."
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