The City of Cockburn council has awarded Shelford Construction Pty Ltd the tender for a landmark expansion of the Cockburn ARC, which will start in early 2024.
The project is a testament to the strong partnership between the City of Cockburn and the Fremantle Dockers, who are both committed to fostering community engagement and sports excellence in the area.
The Cockburn ARC Evolution includes the construction of a new 250-seat spectator grandstand, state-of-the-art AFL Women's changerooms, and substantial upgrades to the existing health club facilities including the spin studio, gym and group fitness areas.
These enhancements will provide the community with improved access to the Club’s training oval and create more opportunities for community football.
Significantly, the expansion is buoyed by state government funding dedicated to building changerooms for the Fremantle Dockers’ AFL Women’s team.
These facilities will set a new benchmark for inclusivity, as they will also welcome various female sporting teams as part of the community sporting programs.
The City of Cockburn’s significant financial contribution is specifically earmarked for creating the proposed grandstand with the aim of improving the matchday experience for members and fans for future AFL pre-season, AFLW and community games played at the venue.
Fremantle CEO Simon Garlick said the project was an acknowledgment of the exciting growth in the area.
“This expansion is more than just scaling up infrastructure to meet the growing demands of our current facility; it’s about building a legacy for community engagement and sports participation,” Garlick said.
“With new AFLW changerooms, the local community will gain access to state-of-the-art sports facilities, promoting greater participation in our great game among women and girls.
“The grandstand will provide greater access for our dedicated fans to watch both our teams train and play at this stunning facility.
“Working together with our close partners in the City of Cockburn, this project will add significant value to the local area, which we feel is the most exciting growth area of Perth for young families.”
City of Cockburn Mayor Logan Howlett said the project was not just about expanding a facility, it's about improving lives.
“It’s exciting to embark on another partnership project with the Fremantle Football Club.
“We signed a Memorandum of Understanding in June in a partnership designed to help expand successful community-focused opportunities and to enhance the lives of local families.
“This project will do just that.”
For ongoing updates on the Cockburn ARC Evolution project, please visit www.cockburnarc.com.au/evolution
