Published on Wednesday, 22 January 2025 at 4:29:48 PM
This week the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale welcomed the announcement from the WA Labor Party that, if re-elected, they would commit $10 million to the redevelopment of the SJ Community Recreation Centre.
Now, the Shire is inviting community members to join its campaign asking all major political parties for further funding for the $43.77 million project.
The centre, located in the Shire’s fastest growing suburb, Byford, is unable to keep up with demand, with many residents forced to leave the Shire to play basketball and other mainstream sports.
In addition, the centre’s courts are not to competition standard, and the building is in a rapidly decaying state.
Shire residents can get involved in showing their support for the redevelopment of the recreation centre, by signing its online form – sending an email supporting the project directly to key decision makers.
Shire President Rob Coales said that the Shire had been advocating for funding for the recreation centre for a number of months, but was now keen to press the message further.
“With a rapidly growing population, it’s vitally important that we encourage as many people as we can to keep fit and healthy, for the long-term benefit of the population,” Mr Coales said.
“The current state of the recreation centre and its lack of capacity means that we are unable to actively encourage more users, as sports such as basketball are usually booked out.
“Shire residents, and particularly our young people, should not be locked out of sport and recreation activities because they simply don’t have access.
“With the support of our SJ community, we can send a strong message to politicians about how important and urgent this project is. The time to act is now.”
How to get involved:
Send your letter of support for the project and hear from local sporting participants about their hopes for the future of sport and recreation in the Shire by clicking here
Learn more about the urgent need for sport and recreation facilities in the Shire by clicking here
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