Our new Clubrooms - May update

We've got some exciting news in terms of progress on our new Ormond Park pavilion

Brett Curran, representing the Moonee Valley Football Club (and past MV cricketer) and myself met with senior Council officers on May 18 to discuss where we’re at with our promised new Ormond Park pavilion.

Also at the meeting were Cr Jim Cusack and Cr Nicole Marshall, who were the driving force behind getting what had been a long-held dream off the concept list and onto the drawing board. They have maintained a keen interest in the project and were strongly supportive of our clubs at the meeting, and we’re grateful that they’re so strongly in our corner.

It’s fair to say we came away from the meeting with a far clearer understanding of the timetable, scheduling and scope of works and our involvement as clubs as each step unfolds.

The planning and approval processes have been completed, so things are clear to proceed to the actual project.

The Council expects to put the project out to tender next month. Brett and I have been invited to sit on the Control Group, so we will have a regular and ongoing role in overseeing and planning the finer detail – such as lighting, fitout and ensuring there are enough power points in the right places. It expected that this group will meet fortnightly, so there will be plenty of opportunity for us on behalf of our clubs to ensure that things don’t slip under the radar.

It is also expected that the building work will start in the last three months of this year – so during the cricket season. The Council is planning a two-stage construction process, which will enable us to at least manage disruption to our seasons and operations.

It is expected that the changeroom component of the project will be built first, so we can continue to utilise the existing pavilion while this is done. The second stage of the process will see the existing pavilion stripped back to a shell, then expanded and fitted out as the main social, catering and licensed area. Whichever of our clubs is in occupation at that time will then function out of the changeroom area, so at least we can stay and operate on-site, albeit under some restriction and disruption.

The Council expects the construction phase for the changeroom area to run for about six months, then work on Stage 2 will follow.

We were also keen to understand the scope of works, and who was responsible for fitout of the project – so we can start planning what we need to fundraise for.

Council officers are in the process of drawing up a list of what is in and out of their budget, so we will have a clearer picture soon on what we’re picking up the tab for.

It was important though to learn that the Council sees itself as responsible for funding the coolroom servicing the bar and canteen, and for the provision and installation of the major fixed kitchen facilities.

We’re excited about where things are at, and will keep our members informed and involved as this wonderful project rolls out.


Charlie Walker.
President, Moonee Valley Cricket Club.