Extra facilities at South Dubbo Oval to help grow AFL in region

The former Girl Guides Hall at South Dubbo Oval will be offered to the Dubbo (Demons) Australian Football League (AFL) and Dubbo Junior Australian Football League (DJAFL) clubs by Dubbo Regional Council (DRC) to provide them with much-needed space for change rooms and a clubhouse.

Councillors approved a proposal to offer the hall to the clubs for a five (5) year licence, with an option of an additional five (5) years, a move that has been welcomed by the Dubbo AFL and DJAFL.

“The Dubbo Junior AFL came to us with a problem that they needed more space for girl’s change rooms. The junior and senior clubs were also looking for somewhere to be able to display their memorabilia and host functions,” Mayor of the Dubbo Region, Councillor Ben Shields, said.

“It was a great result for everyone that the Girl Guides had indicated the hall on the south-west corner of South Dubbo Oval was surplus to their requirements and they were handing it back to Council. That has allowed us to offer it to Dubbo AFL and Dubbo Junior AFL.

“The size of this facility and its location makes it perfect, and will give them the facilities they need to continue to grow their sport.”

The licensing of the hall would complement other proposed works at South Dubbo Oval, Dubbo AFL president Joe Knagge said.

“We’re very happy with this opportunity that has been made available and feel that it will enhance South Dubbo Oval. The Dubbo Demons have never had a clubhouse but it is something we have always wanted at the ground,” Mr Knagge said.

“We always appreciate the opportunity to work with Council and this move will have a long-term benefit for the sport in Dubbo.”

Dubbo Junior AFL president Merinda Roll said there had been a lot of hard work from club volunteers and Council staff and that had paved the way for the positive outcome.

“This is a big step forward for the Dubbo Junior AFL. We’re very grateful to the Mayor and Council for listening to our needs and finding this facility,” Ms Roll said.

“We have a real need for female change rooms because in the under 10s, 12s, 14s, and 17s our sport is mixed gender. Until now we haven’t been able to have boys, girls and away change rooms but that will change now.

“Our sport is very family orientated so to have a clubhouse where juniors and seniors can come together will strengthen the game.”

Source: DRC