Clubhouse Progression Update

27 October 2024

We are pleased to provide you with an update on the progress of our new clubhouse facility. While it may seem that things have quietened down, rest assured that significant work continues behind the scenes.

In recent months, several new members have joined the Clubhouse Progression Subcommittee, which now comprises:

  • Nerine Ockwell (Subcommittee Chairperson): With over 20 years of experience in club governance, finance, and administration, Nerine provides valuable leadership and oversight to the team. 

  • Glyn Ponting: With more than 30 years of experience in health administration, Glyn offers expertise in stakeholder engagement, policy development, and risk management. Current Technical Director - Southern Branch.

  • Norm Holcroft: Retired corporate secretary, Norm brings extensive knowledge in legal matters, board administration, and regulatory compliance. 

  • David Freeman: Senior structural engineer with Westlake Punnett, contributing technical expertise to the project. 

  • Paul May: Retired town planner from Eurobodalla Shire Council, providing insight into local planning regulations. 

  • Gareth Jenkins: Certified building inspector, contributing technical expertise to the project. 

Earlier this year, the Milton Ulladulla Football Club (MUFC) committee approved the recommendation to appoint Bellcorp Management as Project Manager. Bellcorp will oversee consultant procurement, assessment, and recommendations to the subcommittee, progressing the project towards the Development Application (DA) approval stage.

A strong working relationship with Shoalhaven City Council has been established, and collaboration continues. Recently, a business case was submitted at council’s request, seeking formal recognition of the project in council’s 2026 financial year infrastructure budget. Although no guarantees can be made at this early stage, this marks a positive development, indicating potential interest from council in supporting the project's realisation.

Thanks must be given to Patrick Donnelly of Ablock Builders, who has made a significant contribution to the project through his focus on design and research into preferred Football Victoria designs, all while thoughtfully taking the unique characteristics of the location into account. Pat's design and drawings have provided a solid foundation for the project, ensuring that the clubhouse will not only meet the functional needs of the club but also align with the vision for a facility that complements its environment and serves the community for years to come.

The MUFC committee has diligently worked over several years to position the club in a strong financial position. To further demonstrate its commitment to the clubhouse project, MUFC will fund the DA approval phase, including Project Management fees. Upon DA approval, stage two funding strategies will be activated. An initial strategy already in place includes the establishment of a cash reserve fund and the adoption of the annual budget policy. This has enabled continued capital allocation for the new facility, while still meeting the club’s operational needs. Post-DA approval, the club will be eligible to pursue larger state and federal grants, many of which are unavailable without DA approval or landowner consent from council.

During the consultant procurement phase, Bellcorp reached out to 22 consultants across seven disciplines to ensure MUFC obtained the best possible value for money. A total of 16 submissions were received, and a shortlist of consultants was approved. Over the coming weeks, the selected project specialists will be engaged. Given the upcoming holiday period, the submission of the Development Application (DA) is expected by late March or early April.

This project will be a gradual, multi-year endeavour, involving numerous complexities and challenges that must be carefully navigated. While the timeline may seem lengthy, obtaining Development Application (DA) approval is a significant milestone, after which the focus will shift to securing funding. It is essential to take the necessary time to ensure that the design and functionality are both optimal, as this facility will serve as a lasting legacy for the club over the next 50 years. An update will be provided in April 2025 to share further progress.

Nerine Ockwell

Chairperson

Clubhouse Progression Subcommittee