New facilities for Albert Park football clubs officially open

Image credit: George Kouroumalis

There were plenty of smiles as the new temporary homes of Middle Park Football Club (MPFC) and South Melbourne Women’s Football Club (SMWFC) were officially opened.

Both clubs were long-term tenants of the former pit building, and their new facilities will provide a modern, upgraded place to call their own throughout the redevelopment.

Located directly opposite the clubs’ playing fields, the temporary pavilions were delivered by Kinglake-based Modular by SHAPE.

MPFC and SMWFC are two of the three tenant clubs set to benefit from new facilities outside the pit building, with Power House Rugby Union Football Club moving into their own permanent pavilion in the coming month.

The openings marked a significant moment for the clubs, with Theo Chronis, Football Director of SMWFC saying this was more than just a building.

'This represents a place of identity and a sense of belonging, as well as a space for community to grow,' he said.

MPFC President Megan Drysdale said the club was pleased to have the opportunity to use a purpose-built club room during the pit building rebuild.

'Having a stable base has already made a genuinely positive difference to our community,' she said.

With SMWFC formally beginning in the mid 1970’s and MPFC forming in 1959, both clubs have a significant and victorious history in the league and a deep connection to the local community of Albert Park.

Originally built in 1995, the pit building is being replaced to bring it into the 21^st century and ensure it can meet the year-round demands of community sport, provide a multi-purpose venue for the community, and deliver a world-class grand prix.

The new indoor sports centre will include seven indoor sport courts with higher ceilings to cater for more sports, and two more courts than were previously on site.

This will be alongside improved clubrooms ensuring local sport benefits from the upgraded facilities for the long term.