Mayor John Giardina said, “We have seen announcements around a number of key advocacy issues for the City including road infrastructure, sporting and recreation, community development and the environment.”

“The announcement by the Labor Party regarding an $18M commitment for the Ray Owen Project is significant. I call on both sides of government to acknowledge the importance of this project and ensure that we can deliver these upgrades for the wider community.”

“The site was originally developed in the early 1970s, with much of the infrastructure now in need of a major upgrade to meet the needs of its users. The reserve and its associated facilities have been at capacity for many years and the demand continues to grow rapidly.”

“Ray Owen is extensively used by many well-established clubs including AFL, cricket, BMX, basketball and netball and currently has more than 12,000 visitors per week.” 

“The reserve and associated facilities are currently at full capacity with clubs being limited in how they operate and are unable to expand. The basketball and netball associations are in high demand with teams having to train and play at other venues within the City.”

“The Government’s commitment to the Abernethy Road to Lloyd Street enhancement is also a significant project that the City has been advocating for, along with neighbouring local governments, for many years.”

“Along with this we have seen commitments for the grade separations along Tonkin Highway at Hale, Kelvin and Welshpool Roads. This represents a $110 million Federal Government Commitment.”

“The Hon Ken Wyatt has committed $2M to Hartfield Park Sporting Reserve, which will provide the support the City of Kalamunda needs to move forward and plan for the future of this multi-use site.”

“It would further complement the redevelopment of the site, which included significant improvements at soccer and hockey.”

“Liberal have also committed $200K to lighting at Scott reserve and $20K to the Forrestfield Tennis Club to be resurfaced.”

These funds include a previous commitment to the Forrestfield Football Club, and will be invested into redeveloping change rooms and club rooms to meet new demand and the increase in female participation.

This will have a regional benefit with reduced congestion to a key freight route, improved connectivity and safer movement of vehicles for the community.

The City has a few other advocacy projects including the Stirk Park Redevelopment, Woodlupine Living Stream Forrestfield, Kalamunda Cycle Plan, Forrestfield North and the Woodlupine Hub.