It is hoped the centre could take shape as early as next year, with three-way talks kicking off between Moyne Shire, Port Fairy Cricket Club and Port Fairy Folk Festival committee.

Moyne Shire director of physical services Trevor Greenberger said several sites around the Southcombe Park reserve were being mulled over, along with the “pros and cons that go with these”. 

The cricket club estimates the centre could cost about $260,000. Council has already foreshadowed spending $50,000 on the centre. 

Last week it voted to consider the figure in next year’s budget and to put a proposed site out for public comment. 

“Once we find a site and people indicate they’re happy with it, the club will apply for funding at Cricket Victoria,” Mr Greenberger said. 

“After that, council will likely consider funding in the 2015-2016 budget.” 

The building could also play a part in future folk festivals. 

“That’s part of the discussion we’re having about it,” Mr Greenberger said. 

“That’s going to determine the final cost of the facility.” 

Mr Greenberger said moves to fix Port Fairy’s tennis courts at Southcombe Park would also have some influence on the new centre.  “We’ve got to think about it in that context as well,” he said. 

The club needs a temporary home for eight weeks every year when the folk festival takes over the pitch during construction and dismantling of stages and tents. 

Last year the team trained at Tyrendarra and Yambuk. 

“We need somewhere to train in the lead-up to the festival,” cricket club committee member Richard Hodgens told The Standard.  The club hopes to have the building fitted out with three cricket nets, along with some extra rooms for meetings. 

Mr Hodgens said the building could also be used for the folk festival. 

“The most recent information we’ve had from the folk festival is that it could serve as a ticketing area but it’s looking like it might function as a green room area,” he said.