Check out the recent Channel 9 feature on the Save the Coburg Athletics Track and Field Precinct Campaign here: https://youtu.be/eWckEjxy6YQ?si=tNlOWdYv3C9an5yZ

We’re part of one of Victoria’s oldest athletics clubs, and right now, we’re fighting to save our historic home in North Coburg.

The Coburg Harriers have been part of this community since 1896, and since 1971 we’ve proudly called the Harold Stevens Athletic Track our home. It’s a place where generations have trained, competed, and come together — from Olympic champions to kids running their very first race.

In 1966, we were joined by Coburg Little Athletics, creating a strong pathway for young athletes and bringing thousands of local children into the sport we love. Today, it’s not unusual to see five-year-olds sharing the track with athletes in their 90s. That’s what makes this place so special — it’s a rare, intergenerational hub where we support each other to stay active, connected and healthy.

Every year, more than 15,000 people come through our precinct — schools, families, athletes of all abilities, and people just wanting to move and belong. This track is more than just a sporting facility — it’s the heart of our community.

But now, all of that is under threat.

Merri-bek City Council’s Draft Coburg North Sports Hub Master Plan proposes to remove our athletics track and field precinct. The synthetic track would go. There’d be no dedicated space for long jump, high jump, discus, javelin or shot put. There’d be no shade, seating or basic facilities for athletes or spectators. And dozens of local schools would be left without a proper venue for athletics carnivals. Furthermore, a grass track is not inclusive, and would preclude wheelchair athletes from training and competing within the municipality, further underscoring the need for a fully accessible and fit for purpose track and field facility.

We believe Merri-bek Council’s proposal is a huge step backwards — for sport, for community health, for inclusivity and for generations to come.

We’re calling on Merri-bek Council to listen to us, the local community, and work together with us to save, upgrade and protect our athletics precinct — so we can keep running, jumping, throwing, and growing, together.

Step 1: Sign this petition

Step 2: View the Merri-Bek City Council's proposed plans here & let council know your thoughts on their proposal: https://conversations.merri-bek.vic.gov.au/coburg-north-sports-precinct

Check out Anthony Cianflone MP, State Member for Pascoe Vale, raising the need for Merri-bek City Council to save, upgrade and enhance the Coburg Athletics Track and Field Precinct in Parliament: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R59dqR_1aVQ