Work is set to begin on a $16.2 million transformation of Cockburn Aquatic and Recreation Centre (ARC).
The ARC Evolution, a partnership between the City of Cockburn Council and Fremantle Football Club, will deliver significant improvements to the ARC Health Club and Dockers facilities.
Mayor, Logan Howlett said the project, which is scheduled for completion in early 2025, will support the community to thrive by providing inclusive and sustainable services.
“This project is not just about expanding services, it’s about enhancing lives by providing facilities with considerable social and health benefits,” Mayor Howlett said.
“The City provides world-class recreation facilities to our residents, so they can enjoy places to exercise, socialise, connect and have fun.
“This evolution will expand opportunities for residents and visitors to join exercise classes, participate in mind, body, and wellness sessions, and work-out in an award-winning gym.”
Mayor Howlett also said it was exciting to embark on another partnership project with the Dockers, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding by the two parties in June 2023.
“Our partnership with the Dockers is designed to help expand successful community-focused opportunities that improve the lives of local families and I’m confident this project will do all that, and much more,” he said.
“The expansion project will benefit girls and women who will have dedicated changerooms to help promote their active participation in football and other community activities at this world-class venue.”
The Council will fund $9.6 million of the project to deliver a revamped ARC Health Club experience, including:
- Increased gym floor space to 1,500m2;
- Increased Mind and Body Studio to 250m2;
- Relocated and upgraded Group Fitness and Indoor Cycle Studios;
- Conversion of administrative spaces to expand the gym.
Fremantle Football Club and the AFL will provide $3.15m, the State Government will contribute $2.5m and the WA Football Commission has provided $350,000.
These new facilities will include:
- State-of-the-art AFLW changerooms;
- Changerooms to support community sporting programs;
- An undercover 250-seat spectator terrace;
- A multipurpose function space to support education and community programs.
WA Sport and Recreation Minister, David Templeman said female and unisex changeroom facilities were a priority for the government.
“In light of the formation of our AFLW teams and the huge response to last year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup, more young women are playing these sports and need suitable changerooms, like their male counterparts have had for a long time,” he said.
“In a wider context, any facilities which encourage more woman and girls to take part in sport and active recreation are a positive for the community both from a mental and physical health perspective.”
Fremantle Football Club Chief Executive Officer, Simon Garlick said the development reflects the club’s commitment to the community and support of the growth of women’s football at all levels.
“By partnering with the City of Cockburn, the AFL, the State Government, and the WA Football Commission, we are investing in a future where our Club and our community can grow together.”
“This project is a pivotal part of our strategy to enrich and inspire our purple army and the broader community.
“Creating this space, with the City of Cockburn, that welcomes everyone, reinforces the message that the Fremantle Dockers is more than a football Club; we are a community united by our love for the game and our dedication to making a tangible difference,” he said.
