New MFC facility?

[rjay 24,928]

I always thought the rail yard area connecting the G to Laver would be a good choice.

We would then be as close as possible to our home...connected to it really and it would put Collingwood on the outer.

[Diamond_Jim 12,588]

2 hours ago, rjay said:

I always thought the rail yard area connecting the G to Laver would be a good choice.

We would then be as close as possible to our home...connected to it really and it would put Collingwood on the outer.

the roofing of the railway yards has been a thought bubble for many years for lots of governments.

Realise you're not talking the same area or magnitude rjay but the costs not to mention the rail disruption would probably be too high.

For example to support a multi storey building you need foundations. Hard to dig these on one of the busiest rail stretches in Melbourne.

My thoughts always gravitate towards Prahran oval but I really have no idea of its feasibility.  Possibly if we went there we might be able to get some of that "free" government money a la Geelong and Footscray.

Edited February 4, 2018 by Diamond_Jim

[old dee 23,791]

DJ I think we will be both in the ground before the rail yard are covered in. Re Prahran a couple of years ago at an AGM ( I think ) PJ said Prahran was not feasible. Basically no room for any development. Also think that the council was not in favour as well. 

[beelzebub 23,376]

Forget the railyards. They will never be covered in any meaningful capacity that would facilitate our  purposes. Eddie can also forget about dropping Richmond Station underground. The disruption and logistics are of a magnitude  to give even the largest of Civil Contractors colliwobbles. Will never happen.  The magic triangle at Goschs actually has potential.

[Hot as Hell 466]

Firstly let me say I would really support any proposal around the MCG sporting precinct that could deliver MFC with the space and facilities and branding capabilities we really need to mark out a spot as our own. It seems that this is more wishful thinking than a reality since Eddie took the obvious area from under our noses, some time ago. We are now clasping at straws to patch together some land and adjacent admin facilities around Gosch's paddock. 

I get to stare at Elsternwick Park every day from an office building, and the quite massive land bank it entails. Other than development costs and local council permits (which I totally concede are big hurdles to jump), there would appear to be few closer sites to the city, suitable for rezoning. 

The parklands are easily accessible using either one 15 minute tram ride down St Kilda Road or a 12 minute train ride from Flinders Street to Elsternwick Station.

Parking, like anywhere in Melbourne these days, is possibly an issue but could be accommodated by some road widening as part of a full scale precinct development.

I accept that a true long term MFC "home" needs genuine accessibility from all sides of town and I would welcome any site on the North or East that has similar accessibility to public transport. The City of Glen Eira local council has in recent times adopted a very aggressive town planning footprint of medium density development. Adding or contributing to a local AFL development would appear, at least in principle, to be within their funding and identity criteria.  

I understand we have considered Elsternwick before amongst our options. For whatever reason, it could not get over the line for serious consideration. Maybe the Punt Road triangle gets us there, maybe it doesn't.  If it works, that's great, problem solved. If it doesn't, we really need to move quickly before the State Government's overflowing coffers become empty tins when the economic tide turns south. There will be no easy money when that happens, as it inevitably will. Probably within the next 3 years.

I encourage the Board to engage strongly, but not hastily, in resolving this planning issue. Commencement does not need to be soon, but the decision and where with all to proceed, does within the 3 year or so window. 

[Adam The God 30,259]

2 hours ago, Hot as Hell said:

Firstly let me say I would really support any proposal around the MCG sporting precinct that could deliver MFC with the space and facilities and branding capabilities we really need to mark out a spot as our own. It seems that this is more wishful thinking than a reality since Eddie took the obvious area from under our noses, some time ago. We are now clasping at straws to patch together some land and adjacent admin facilities around Gosch's paddock. 

I get to stare at Elsternwick Park every day from an office building, and the quite massive land bank it entails. Other than development costs and local council permits (which I totally concede are big hurdles to jump), there would appear to be few closer sites to the city, suitable for rezoning. 

The parklands are easily accessible using either one 15 minute tram ride down St Kilda Road or a 12 minute train ride from Flinders Street to Elsternwick Station.

Parking, like anywhere in Melbourne these days, is possibly an issue but could be accommodated by some road widening as part of a full scale precinct development.

I accept that a true long term MFC "home" needs genuine accessibility from all sides of town and I would welcome any site on the North or East that has similar accessibility to public transport. The City of Glen Eira local council has in recent times adopted a very aggressive town planning footprint of medium density development. Adding or contributing to a local AFL development would appear, at least in principle, to be within their funding and identity criteria.  

I understand we have considered Elsternwick before amongst our options. For whatever reason, it could not get over the line for serious consideration. Maybe the Punt Road triangle gets us there, maybe it doesn't.  If it works, that's great, problem solved. If it doesn't, we really need to move quickly before the State Government's overflowing coffers become empty tins when the economic tide turns south. There will be no easy money when that happens, as it inevitably will. Probably within the next 3 years.

I encourage the Board to engage strongly, but not hastily, in resolving this planning issue. Commencement does not need to be soon, but the decision and where with all to proceed, does within the 3 year or so window. 

And I've heard are in debt to the tune of $80mill. I can't see them going further into debt with a proposal like this, although living in the council, I like the idea (even if my rates go up a little ).

[whatwhat say what 22,757]

selfishly i would love orrong park to be the home of the dees; the club regularly hosts training nights and the like there - and as someone up thread said, as part of a marginal electorate it could be an excellent chance to get some of that sweet, sweet pork barrelling that other clubs seem to get as a given

but as it's removed from the 'city' per se i can understand why it's unlikely

Edited February 5, 2018 by DemonAndrew

[La Dee-vina Comedia 16,755]

9 hours ago, DemonAndrew said:

selfishly i would love orrong park to be the home of the dees; the club regularly hosts training nights and the like there - and as someone up thread said, as part of a marginal electorate it could be an excellent chance to get some of that sweet, sweet pork barrelling that other clubs seem to get as a given

but as it's removed from the 'city' per se i can understand why it's unlikely

It's not in a marginal electorate, State or Federal. It's in the Federal electorate of Higgins which Labor and the Greens tried to convince the media was "gettable" at the last election by claiming it was marginal when they knew all along it wasn't. And they didn't get close. Her margin is at least 10%. (It's hard to calculate because it's unclear whether to look at the margin over the Greens - about 15% or against Labor - about 20%). And it's (just) in the State seat of Malvern which is rock solid Liberal, held by Michael O'Brien (a Carlton supporter).

[whatwhat say what 22,757]

isn't orrong park part of prahran, currently held by the greens' sam hibbins? before that it was newton-brown (liberal), before that lupton (labor), and before that libs' leonie burke?

or is that where the boundary exists?

[La Dee-vina Comedia 16,755]

Orrong Park is on the Malvern electorate (east) side of Orrong Road. The Prahran electorate starts on the west side. And, yes, Prahran is a marginal State seat with each of the Greens, Libs and Labor in with a chance at the next election.

[Biffen 12,943]

I though "The Gysberts Gymansium" would be a winner so what would I know.

 

[Demon Dynasty 17,109]

On 29 January 2018 at 6:14 PM, TeamPlayedFine39 said:

Article here detailing plans being pushed by MFC hierarchy to have a new facility built to accommodate the Football Department and club administration.

https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/melbourne-football-club-considering-new-training-facility-next-to-goschs-paddock/news-story/ef692ba70fd95c0c2334174f443f7284

 

It’s in keeping with Bartlett and co wanting to keep the club central, visible and associated with the city of Melbourne.  (There might even be a merchandise store that isn’t terrifying to visit)

 

And who the hec is going to be able to attend that facility other than those living directly in and around the city / Richmond who don't need to drive in?  No parking options other than pay through the nose daily car parks and a few minor side street options across punt road where you can't stay usually past one hour or so before getting fined.  Then no safe way to cross over to the facility on such a busy road either for families other than heading all the way to Alexander Pde or Swan St intersections and walking  back down.  Then all the way back again.  Only die hards will do this if they are driving in.

The MFC did its research and determined that the biggest "growth" corridor was outer Easter suburbs, hence the Casey link.

Foster and grow that link even further, and save a stack of $ also and retro fit Waverley Park and let's finally become a real "people's" club that members / followers can easily access and frequent.  This is an ideal fit in an ideal location that people can actually park and attend and watch training / support their club and enjoy some pleasant facilities including cafes / fitness club, merchandise store etc.

Goschs paddock offers nothing for this club other than many more decades of obscurity and under the radar season fails, where the players/staff don't have to face any supporter member and chat/look them in the eye after a horrible performance or alternatively celebrate a great win.  There remains no concrete tangible connection between the MFC hierarchy / FD and its grass root supporters and IMO we will never taste ultimate success until this is addressed.  It's the missing piece in the MFC puzzle.  A retro fit is needed no doubt but can be solved with clever planning and maybe an AFL grant/assistance with a move / upgrade to Waverley Park ?? ??

[Cards13 9,117]

2 minutes ago, Rusty Nails said:

And who the hec is going to be able to attend that facility other than those living directly in and around the city / Richmond who don't need to drive in?  No parking options other than pay through the nose daily car parks and a few minor side street options across punt road where you can't stay usually past one hour or so before getting fined.  Then no safe way to cross over to the facility on such a busy road either for families other than heading all the way to Alexander Pde or Swan St intersections and walking  back down.  Then all the way back again.  Only die hards will do this if they are driving in.

The MFC did its research and determined that the biggest "growth" corridor was outer Easter suburbs, hence the Casey link.

Foster and grow that link even further, and save a stack of $ also and retro fit Waverley Park and let's finally become a real "people's" club that members / followers can easily access and frequent.  This is an ideal fit in an ideal location that people can actually park and attend and watch training / support their club and enjoy some pleasant facilities including cafes / fitness club, merchandise store etc.

Goschs paddock offers nothing for this club other than many more decades of obscurity and under the radar season fails, where the players/staff don't have to face any supporter member and chat/look them in the eye after a horrible performance or alternatively celebrate a great win.  There remains no concrete tangible connection between the MFC hierarchy / FD and its grass root supporters and IMO we will never taste ultimate success until this is addressed.  It's the missing piece in the MFC puzzle.  A retro fit is needed no doubt but can be solved with clever planning and maybe an AFL grant/assistance with a move / upgrade to Waverley Park ?? ??

At times the parking isn't too bad along the river, just over the footbridge to Gosch's. Otherwise yes parking is a drainer, but the Pies have the same issue just up the road. You'll never please everyone unfortunately, at least if we have roots somewhere, hopefully, people will come.

[Demon Dynasty 17,109]

10 minutes ago, Cards13 said:

At times the parking isn't too bad along the river, just over the footbridge to Gosch's. Otherwise yes parking is a drainer, but the Pies have the same issue just up the road. You'll never please everyone unfortunately, at least if we have roots somewhere, hopefully, people will come.

Cards I'll give you the tip now.... Only true die hards will come anywhere near that area on a regular basis.  Same goes for Pie supporters.  They just have more die hards ✌?️

[La Dee-vina Comedia 16,755]

Is it really about building something for the supporters to make use of? Ideally, I could see some value in that, but as much as we are and should be the heart and soul of the club, isn't the purpose of this particular facility primarily about combining the back-of-house (or "administration") with the footy department?

[daisycutter 29,616]

51 minutes ago, Rusty Nails said:

>

Foster and grow that link even further, and save a stack of $ also and retro fit Waverley Park and let's finally become a real "people's" club that members / followers can easily access and frequent.  This is an ideal fit in an ideal location that people can actually park and attend and watch training / support their club and enjoy some pleasant facilities including cafes / fitness club, merchandise store etc............................................A retro fit is needed no doubt but can be solved with clever planning and maybe an AFL grant/assistance with a move / upgrade to Waverley Park ?? ??

>

rusty, can you explain why waverley park would suit our fd/admin requirements going into the future and why the hawks obviously feel it is inadequate for them. i'd also heard parking is an issue at wp

[Hot as Hell 466]

20 hours ago, A F said:

And I've heard are in debt to the tune of $80mill. I can't see them going further into debt with a proposal like this, although living in the council, I like the idea (even if my rates go up a little ).

With all due respect AF as a former local government auditor, I do not believe your 1 line comment on the position of Council is correct.  Having inspected the 2017 accounts the City finds itself well cashed up with burgeoning coffers helped by development fees and new ratepayers.

With capital assets in excess of $2.1b and an operating 2017 surplus of nearly $30m, City of Glen Eira is well positioned, should they be pre-disposed to, contribute a handsome amount to a 50 year capital asset, assuming the largesse of our benevolent current premier remains.

[Demon Dynasty 17,109]

6 hours ago, daisycutter said:

rusty, can you explain why waverley park would suit our fd/admin requirements going into the future and why the hawks obviously feel it is inadequate for them. i'd also heard parking is an issue at wp

It has served the Hawks very well over many years while they grew from approx 27k members in 2007 to a massive 75k plus now Daisy.  And they managed 4 premierships along the way.  My guess is it worked very well all round for their Admin/FD/Merchandise areas as well as very good fan attendance / involvement during this period also.  Including a home to go to after tasting ultimate success for the after parties (think the cup coming home the morning after... where would our members go on the Sunday right now?  Wherever it is it wouldn't be home as such). 

We are still where they were, membership wise, about 5 / 6 years ago with no success over the decade or more they have been at Waverley.  I think this venue, subject to a significant upgrade of facilities (and maybe a little attention to the car park also if possible) would serve us very well until we have outgrown it (hopefully) due to on field successes.

We need a "home base" that is inclusive to everyone involved in the club, yes including members / supporters.  The lifeblood of a great club.  While we continue to overlook and ignore this critical aspect of what makes a great "club", I doubt we will ever add to our silverware. And you need a home to display those also!  After all, what else are we doing if we aren't aiming to fill the display cabinet (at THE CLUB) and walls with memories of great deeds, heroism and amazing stories of team efforts / greatness ...on the field along with the resulting silverware.  It might also help to inspire future generations to do likewise.  Success can be infectious!

[Diamond_Jim 12,588]

If we won the big one I'd be happy with the MCG carpark for the celebrations.

It's as close to "home" as we can now get.

For a facility for looking at the old cups etc I don't really mind.

Perhaps we are like that other wandering tribe... destined to wander in the wilderness until shown our promised land !

Just hope I'm not like Moses and therefore destined never to set foot in such a land.

[La Dee-vina Comedia 16,755]

In my view there are only two logical spots for the club to have a supporters' facility, meaning a place to view the 12 Premiership cups, various other memorabilia and for member services to be offered. Either at the MCG or somewhere within the Melbourne CBD, such as within the Melbourne Town Hall or at Fed Square. The former has the attraction of being our true home; the latter has the advantage of promoting the club more broadly by providing exposure where the most people are in a location which has a logical synergy because of our name and heritage. Everywhere else is flawed. A triangle of land near Gosch's Paddock might be great for the club but it won't be of much use to supporters.

[daisycutter 29,616]

Quote

Hawthorn say they have run out of room at Waverley, which is surrounded by housing, with limited parking and capacity to expand. The club believes Waverley Park – state of the art several years ago – would rank "bottom four" in the AFL as a facility today.

Quote

.....with the Hawks hoping to receive a significant return from the sale or lease of their Waverley base.

This will mean letting go of the Ricoh Centre at Waverley Park, where the Hawks moved late in 2004 and own 85 per cent of the building (freehold), in a complicated deal involving the developer Mirvac and the state government.

development is also hampered due to the old waverley stand being heritage victoria listed. Hawks looked at underground expansion but found the costs were prohibitive.

Add the requirement to support an aflw team which in the future will be a full-time winter competition

there is just no room for expansion at waverley and any redevelopment would be difficult, restrictive and expensive

[Bitter but optimistic 22,241]

There's plenty of space at Romsey.

I might even open the doors of The Manor for some special fund raising events.

[ManDee 7,148]

24 minutes ago, Bitter but optimistic said:

There's plenty of space at Romsey.

I might even open the doors of The Manor for some special fund raising events.

Sorry Bitter , but Mansfield is the place. Our main footy oval known as the MCG and our secondary oval is Lords. What more is needed? 

[old dee 23,791]

30 minutes ago, Bitter but optimistic said:

There's plenty of space at Romsey.

I might even open the doors of The Manor for some special fund raising events.

So the MFC have rung by now Bbo?

[Cards13 9,117]

5 hours ago, La Dee-vina Comedia said:

In my view there are only two logical spots for the club to have a supporters' facility, meaning a place to view the 12 Premiership cups, various other memorabilia and for member services to be offered. Either at the MCG or somewhere within the Melbourne CBD, such as within the Melbourne Town Hall or at Fed Square. The former has the attraction of being our true home; the latter has the advantage of promoting the club more broadly by providing exposure where the most people are in a location which has a logical synergy because of our name and heritage. Everywhere else is flawed. A triangle of land near Gosch's Paddock might be great for the club but it won't be of much use to supporters.

Pretty big office space has just opened up we could use