After seven long years, St Kilda Football Club has returned to its spiritual home at Moorabbin Reserve thanks to a $30 million redevelopment backed by the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Sport John Eren and Member for Bentleigh Nick Staikos joined the club’s biggest stars at Moorabbin today for their first training session at the new and improved ground.
The redeveloped reserve will give the Saints the resources and base they need to return to finals glory, including high-level training and rehabilitation facilities.
In a massive win for grassroots footy, the upgrade will give around 15,000 budding footballers a ground they can share with their heroes and be truly proud of.
The venue will become the new home for the Sandringham Dragons, and the headquarters of the Southern Football Netball League and South Metro Junior Football League.
It will also feature administrative facilities, a high-ball indoor training facility and gym, as well as more space to host local functions and events.
The Saint’s men’s team officially relocated to the new facilities today – now named RSEA Park – and will be joined by an AFLW team in 2020.
It means more fans and visitors will flock to Linton Street for open training sessions and VFL matches – providing a real boost to the local economy.
Stage 1 of the redevelopment will be completed later this year, delivering new community football facilities, including player and umpire change rooms, training areas, league administration offices and improved carparking.
Works on Moorabbin Reserve are being delivered in partnership with the Labor Government, St Kilda Football Club, the AFL, Kingston City Council and local sporting leagues.
Quote attributable to Minister for Sport John Eren
“Moorabbin is etched in footy folklore – now the Saints and this proud sporting community can begin to write a new chapter at this iconic ground.”
Quote attributable to Member for Bentleigh Nick Staikos
“St Kilda’s march back to Moorabbin is complete. We’re so proud to have helped the Saints and our local clubs return to their spiritual home and build the facilities they need to win another flag.”
Quote attributable to St Kilda Football Club President Peter Summers
“We were blessed with a first-class facility and community support in our time at Seaford, but this venue in Moorabbin holds a very special place in the hearts and minds of St Kilda people. We believe today marks the beginning of a new era at the football club and an opportunity to reconnect with the Bayside community.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020