- $1.4 million State Government contribution delivers modern, inclusive sporting facilities at Len Shearer Reserve in City of Melville
- Upgrades include four new change rooms, that can be used by male or female teams, expanded clubrooms, new canteen, and increased storage
- Delivered as part of the WA Government's PlayOn WA initiative to boost female and community sport participation
Female and community sport in the City of Melville has received a major boost, with the completion of a $3.5 million redevelopment at Len Shearer Reserve under the Western Australian Government's PlayOn WA: 2030 by 2030 initiative.
The project has transformed the outdated club and change room facilities into a state-of-the-art, inclusive sporting hub designed to cater to all participants.
Situated in the heart of Booragoon, Len Shearer Reserve is a vibrant multi-use sporting hub, home to the Murdoch University Melville Football Club (MUMFC) and Melville Roar Little Athletics.
The redevelopment was made possible by a $1.2 million Community Sporting and Recreation Facilities Fund grant to the City of Melville, and an additional contribution from MUMFC through the $300,000 it received under the Women's World Cup Legacy Grants.
An additional $2.1 million was contributed to the $3.5 million project by the City of Melville.
The completed upgrades include four change rooms that can be used by either male or female teams - double what there was previously - a larger clubroom with an extended footprint, increased storage capacity, a new modern umpires' room, and a brand-new canteen.
The new change rooms include lockable individual showers, toilet cubicles, and non-slip flooring - all designed to accommodate full-sized teams in a safe and inclusive environment.
Both MUMFC and the local athletics club have seen significant growth in female participation, and the delivery of these new facilities is expected to further support and encourage that momentum.
As stated by Sport and Recreation Minister Rita Saffioti:
"We've seen tremendous growth in women's sport, and these new facilities at Len Shearer Reserve will ensure players have the modern, inclusive spaces they deserve.
"The WA Government is proud to back projects like this, which not only deliver world-class facilities but also inspire more women and girls to get involved in sport. The Len Shearer Reserve is a sporting hub for the local community, and these upgrades will make it even more welcoming for everyone.
"This redevelopment is part of our commitment through PlayOn WA to leave a lasting legacy for community sport facilities that inspire participation and reflect the needs of today's game."
As stated by Bateman MLA Kim Giddens:
"Len Shearer Reserve is at the heart of community life in Booragoon. Whether it's soccer, athletics, walking the dog, or kids having a kick on the oval, locals love and use this space every day and these new facilities are a major win for our community.
"This redevelopment delivers modern, inclusive spaces that support thousands of players and volunteers, while also making Len Shearer a more welcoming hub for everyone who enjoys the reserve.
"We've built a strong record of backing local clubs - from funding for new lighting and facilities at Murdoch University Melville Football Club, to delivering a state-of-the-art timing system for Melville Roar Little Athletics. These upgrades, under the government's PlayOn WA initiative, build on that record and ensure Len Shearer continues to be a place where community and sport thrive together."
