R J Sillitoe Reserve Pavilion has officially opened following a plaque unveiling by Bayside Mayor, Cr Hanna El Mouallem.
Completed in 18 months, works for the Hampton East pavilion began in March 2022 and were finished by September 2023.
The opening celebrates the 16th pavilion completed as part of our $52 million investment to improve all sporting pavilions in Bayside by 2025, with a further 9 renewals to go.
Tenant clubs and members of the wider Bayside community were present for the opening of the magnificent new pavilion.
Cr El Mouallem said the opening of the pavilion represents an important achievement for Bayside's sporting community.
"This upgrade provides a space where all can feel included, with inclusive facilities and a place where everyone can feel comfortable and welcome to participate in sports," Cr El Mouallem said.
Built in 1970, R.J. Sillitoe Reserve received an additional pavilion in 1990 and served the community's needs for many years, however the pavilions were no longer suitable.
The redeveloped fit-for-purpose pavilion is an environmentally conscious building that reflects the changing needs of the resident clubs and will support players of all genders and abilities for many years to come.
The $3.4 million upgrade is designed to respond to Bayside's declaration of a climate emergency and features:
- solar panels on the roof
- electric appliances and water heating systems to reduce reliance on natural gas
- sensor lighting and water tanks
- clever use of expansive glass; and
- use of sustainable sourced products where possible.
Key features include a gender neutral changerooms and umpire facilities, kiosk, increased storage facilities and a community space for broader community use.
The pavilion is now also fully compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act.
