President's Update - Redevelopment

(This is an extract from the President’s Report in the PFC Annual Report-in response from requests from some members for an update. It follows a TOVP decision on October 18 to start the actual construction process.)

On 1^st November 2022, the Town of Victoria Park confirmed that they would cover off on the $4 million construction gap over and above the committed $14.1 million funding, which means we can expect the new PFC headquarters to start construction by September 2023 – with a projected two-year build.

Colin Lofts and Russell Clark have been persistently dogged in getting the project to this point. As I write in mid-November, they have achieved a major step towards the PFC future needs with this building.

Three years ago, the Council saw PFC as being a part of a multi-story Community building-we have always sought a stand-alone building identity for the PFC, so that we can run our own management model, as we have for some 63 years. Your Board unanimously has accepted a Council counterproposal which provides that identity.

In effect our existing building runs from the oval midpoint south to the half-forward flank – it will now run north from the oval midpoint to the half-forward flank. As well when and if the Council builds its Community Centre, there are extra major benefits for the Club in the 4^th changeroom and extensive alfresco entertaining areas. We are also seeking to expand the viewing area seating in the south zone.

More information can be found from the Town’s dedicated project webpage at www.victoriapark.wa.gov.au/Works-and-Projects/Lathlain-Park-Zone-1