- Published:
- Sunday 13 December 2015
The Andrews Labor Government is helping the St Kilda Football Club return to its spiritual home by turning Moorabbin into a world-class facility the whole community can enjoy with a new injection of funds.
Today, Minister for Sport John Eren joined St Kilda chief executive Matt Finnis and some of the club’s biggest stars at the Linton Street ground the Saints called home for decades.
The $12 million investment will provide the state-of-the-art facilities modern AFL clubs need to compete, and give grassroots organisations the home base they deserve. The Labor Government’s additional $4 million commitment complements the $8 million in Victorian Government funding already committed.
The Saints will share the great facility with the South Metro Junior Football League, Southern Football Netball League, Sandringham Dragons and other AFL Victoria staff.
Moorabbin is etched in footy folklore, but badly needs an upgrade. The venue is where a young Tony Lockett bagged 15 goals against the Sydney Swans in 1992, and Saints legends Barry Breen and Trevor Barker made their names. The Labor Government is giving St Kilda’s iconic home the upgrade it needs.
The redevelopment will include the best training and rehabilitation facilities for Saints players and the grassroots community too. The refurbishment comes complete with administration facilities, space for meetings and events, an improved entertainment venue and lighting. Community recreation areas and additional car parking are also planned.
The Labor Government’s upgrade of Moorabbin marks the start of a new era for St Kilda, and gives 15,000 budding footballers a flagship venue they can be proud to call their own. The Saints’ return to Moorabbin means more visitors will flock to Linton Street for open training sessions and VFL matches – and that’s a boost to the local economy.
The Labor Government is getting on with the job of delivering elite facilities to help the AFL grow. The Government’s $31.5 million investment in Eureka Stadium is bringing AFL home-and-away games to Ballarat, and the Government is spending $75 million turning Simonds Stadium into regional Australia’s best venue.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Sport, John Eren
“They’ve played football here for decades – it’s St Kilda’s sacred turf. Soon, the Saints will be able to return to their spiritual home and the community will have a state-of-the-art facility it can be proud of.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Bentleigh, Nick Staikos
“St Kilda’s return to Moorabbin means closer ties with the community, better facilities for budding footballers and more opportunities for local businesses.”
Quotes attributable to St Kilda Football Club Chief Executive, Matt Finnis
“This is a fantastic result for the club, our supporters and the local community. A return to Moorabbin will underpin our future success, and builds on the positive momentum at the Saints.”