News

• 2013-04-11 - New lease of life for Olympic Park
  A new chapter has begun in the life of Melbourne’s Olympic Park with its redevelopment as a football oval and running track now open and available to the public, Minister for Major Projects David Hodgett announced today.
  
  Speaking at Collingwood Football Club’s first training session on the new ground, Mr Hodgett said the $11.3 million redevelopment had given Olympic Park a new lease of life.
  
  “With athletics moving to a purpose built facility at Lakeside Stadium, new possibilities opened up for Olympic Park which was definitely showing its age. With the 1980s grandstand removed, the redeveloped oval opens up new public green space and a wonderful view of the Botanical Gardens across the river,” Mr Hodgett said.
  
  “The redevelopment of Olympic Park and the $366 million Melbourne Park redevelopment project, currently under construction on the other side of Olympic Boulevard, are all part of the evolution of Melbourne’s legendary sporting precinct.
  
  “No other city has so many world-class venues and facilities so close to the centre of town, it really is one of Melbourne’s greatest assets,” Mr Hodgett said.
  
  Minister for Sport and Recreation Hugh Delahunty said Melbourne’s reputation as a sporting capital was built on its impressive collection of sports stadiums and its ability to create quality venues that everyone could enjoy.
  
  “The Victorian Coalition Government is proud of the ongoing improvements made to the Melbourne and Olympic Parks Precinct including establishing the National Tennis Centre and Margaret Court Arena as the precinct’s third indoor arena,” Mr Delahunty said.
  
  “We’re just as proud of Olympic Park Oval, the latest addition to our enviable suite of sporting venues and green spaces in the heart of our sporting capital.
  
  “It is pleasing that the facility will be open to the public to use the ground for a leisurely kick or jog around its new three lane running track, when not being used for training purposes,” Mr Delahunty said.
  
  The Chair of Melbourne and Olympic Parks Trust, Russell Caplan said the redevelopment was a great asset to the ever-evolving precinct, providing excellent new training facilities for the Collingwood Football Club as well as a new public space for the Victorian community.
  
  “The redevelopment provides additional green space, which will be accessible to members of the community, sporting groups and schools,” Mr Caplan said.
  
  “It is also important to note the redevelopment has been carefully planned to ensure the Olympic heritage of this oval is maintained and honoured, including the relocation of the famous John Landy-Ron Clarke statue to the site where the iconic act of sportsmanship occurred.”
  
  Collingwood Football Club President Eddie McGuire said the Collingwood Football Club was extremely proud to be part of this magnificent precinct.
  
  “Collingwood is the biggest sporting club in Australia and having direct access to an MCG sized training oval of this quality complements our state-of-the-art facilities at the Westpac Centre and provides our club with a training base that is the equal to any in the world,” Mr McGuire said.
  
  “We have enormous respect for the history and heritage of this famous site and we look forward to working closely with the Coalition Government and Melbourne and Olympic Parks Trust to ensure that this oval is available – not just for Collingwood – but also for greater community engagement.”
  
  
• 2013-01-14 - National Tennis Centre delivered a year ahead of schedule
  Melbourne and Olympic Park’s new National Tennis Centre has been delivered one year ahead of schedule, on budget and in time for the 2013 Australian Open, Acting Premier Peter Ryan said at last night’s official opening.
  
  “The National Tennis Centre is now Australia’s, and arguably the world’s, best purpose built, elite tennis training facility,” Mr Ryan said.
  
  “The centre features eight indoor and 13 outdoor courts for elite training and general public use, as well as a gymnasium, lounge and change rooms for players. It also features top class coaching facilities, such as video play back rooms adjacent to the courts, which makes it easier for players to develop their games to the highest standards.”
  
  “Other project highlights include work already under way to upgrade Margaret Court Arena with an operable roof and an extra 1,500 seats; construction and recent opening of the Edwin Flack Bridge across Olympic Boulevard and improvements to public spaces,” Mr Ryan said.
  
  Minister for Sport and Recreation Hugh Delahunty said the new facilities would provide great outcomes for the Australian Open and the public, while helping Australia’s current and future tennis stars achieve new levels of excellence.
  
  “The Australian Open showcases Melbourne and Victoria to an international audience of more than 300 million people,” Mr Delahunty said.
  
  “It is one a key fixture in Melbourne’s major events calendar, drawing around 700,000 people annually and generating an estimated $239 million and 1,440 jobs for the Victorian economy.
  
  “Outside tennis, Melbourne Park hosts around 200 events, attracting more than two million people, each year.”
  
  Minister for Major Projects Dr Denis Napthine said the project team, which included Major Projects Victoria, Watpac Construction and the design team of Jackson Architecture, Winward Structures and WSP Group, had done a fantastic job to finish ahead of schedule.
  
  “We are delighted to be opening the building for the Australian Open this year, instead of next year as originally scheduled. The whole team has worked brilliantly to achieve this, despite the building site being in the midst of one of Melbourne’s busiest precincts,” Dr Napthine said.
• 2012-12-20 - New sports precinct bridge open for Melbourne Derby

   

  Melbourne Park’s new Edwin Flack Bridge is to open this weekend, just in time for Saturday’s grudge match between Melbourne Heart and Melbourne Victory.
  

  Minister for Major Projects Denis Napthine said pedestrians will now be able to walk direct from the MCG and Yarra Park to AAMI Park via the fantastic new Edwin Flack Bridge over Olympic Boulevard.
  

  “A big crowd is expected for the Melbourne Derby so the bridge opening is perfectly timed,” Dr Napthine said.
  

  “On their way people will get their first look at the new Eastern Plaza and National Tennis Centre building which are in the final stages of preparation for use during the 2013 Australian Open.
  

  “The Edwin Flack Bridge truly celebrates Melbourne Park’s unique sporting heritage. Not only is it named after Australia’s very first Olympic Gold medallist, but additionally, two sets of Olympic Rings from the 1956 Melbourne Games hang from the bridge over Olympic Boulevard.
  

  “One set of the rings was originally hung on the Olympic Park grandstand while the other was used on the grandstand for the Olympic velodrome on the site now occupied by AAMI Park.
  

  “I’m delighted to see the bridge completed and getting a workout a year ahead of schedule,” Dr Napthine said.
  

  Minister for Sport and Recreation Hugh Delahunty said the new bridge, Eastern Plaza and the National Tennis Centre were all part of the Victorian Coalition Government’s plan to give Melbourne the best sporting facilities in the world.
  

  “Our aim is to make Melbourne Park the best of all Grand Slam venues, which we think the first stage alone will achieve,” Mr Delahunty said.
  

  “The National Tennis Centre will provide 21 new indoor and outdoor courts as well as the latest gym and training facilities for players. On the other side of the precinct work is well underway to build an operable roof for Margaret Court Arena, making Melbourne the only Grand Slam venue with three roofed arenas.
  

  “Spectators at the 2013 Australian Open will notice the improvements made to the entries of Hisense Arena while the Eastern Plaza will provide another large public space for all kinds of activities during the event.
  

  “The work accomplished this year by the project teams will definitely make the 2013 Australian Open one of the best ever for players and patrons alike,” Mr Delahunty said.
  
  Watch the video of the bridge being installed
  

• 2012-12-12 - Opening of clay courts signals new chapter in elite tennis training
  It was a flurry of volleys, forehands, backhands and lobs as Australia’s future stars of tennis today took the chance to test drive Melbourne Park’s eight new clay courts as part of the $366 million redevelopment of the precinct.
  
  Minister for Sport and Recreation, Hugh Delahunty, was joined by Tennis Australia officials, including Steve Wood, Todd Woodbridge and John Fitzgerald to open the courts.
  
  “It’s great to be here to celebrate yet another milestone in the exciting multi-million-dollar redevelopment of our great sporting and entertainment precinct, Melbourne Park,” Mr Delahunty said.
  
  “These eight new courts are a real asset for our emerging and elite athletes who get very little opportunity to train on a European clay surface.
  
  “When you consider that one third of world’s premier tennis tournaments are played on clay courts, you begin to realise that providing a diverse range of court surfaces within training facilities is essential to the growth of our junior players.
  
  “There’s no doubt this redevelopment is delivering many key benefits, including catering for the ongoing growth of the Open, keeping the Grand Slam in Melbourne until at least 2036, and giving our future stars the best support  and facilities to compete on the world stage,” he said.
  
  Minister for Major Projects, Denis Napthine said the Victorian Government had worked closely with Tennis Australia to import clay from Italy to ensure tennis players can play and practice on the same courts as those they’ll be competing on overseas.
  
  “Our next milestone will be the opening of the National Tennis Centre which, combined with the courts, will deliver the best elite development facility in Australian tennis,” Dr Napthine said.
  
  “This exciting project is progressing very well with elements such as the footbridge and Eastern Plaza and National Tennis Centre expected to open to the public before the 2013 Australian Open.
   
  “Patrons of the 2013 Australian Open will also be using the new entrances for Hisense Arena. Over at Margaret Court Arena, major changes are evident.
  
  “This redevelopment is already making Melbourne Park the envy of all the other Grand Slams and this year’s State Budget funding of $5.5 million to plan for Stage Two means that Melbourne Park will continue to set the standard for decades to come. 
  
• 2012-11-09 - 1956 Olympic Rings restored and installed at Melbourne Park

  Melbourne Park’s unique sporting heritage has been celebrated with two sets of Olympic Rings from the 1956 Melbourne Games installed on the Edwin Flack footbridge overnight, Minister for Major Projects Denis Napthine said today.
  

  “These rings have a long history with Melbourne Park. One set was hung on the Olympic Park grandstand while the other was used on the grandstand for the Olympic velodrome on the site now occupied by AAMI Park,” Dr Napthine said.
  

  “It is great to see them returned to their home and publicly displayed less than a hundred metres from their original positions.
  

  “The Olympic Rings are a fantastic reminder of the precinct’s rich sporting heritage and I’m very glad we are able to include them as part of the new Edwin Flack footbridge.
  

  “Named after Australia’s first Olympic champion, Edwin Flack, the footbridge is another link to the past and a reminder of our nation’s sporting history,” Dr Napthine said.
  

  “The bridge is a part of the $366 million first stage of the Melbourne Park redevelopment that is transforming Melbourne’s sporting and entertainment precinct.
  

  “The new bridge will make it easier for everyone to get around the sports precinct and to travel between Melbourne Park, the MCG and AAMI Park. We expect it to open to the public in December this year in time for the Boxing Day tests and the Australian Open in January,” Dr Napthine said.
  

  Minister for Sport Hugh Delahunty said work on the first stage of the Melbourne Park redevelopment was progressing well with elements such as the footbridge and Eastern Plaza opening to the public before the end of the year.
  

  “Work on the National Tennis Centre training facility, offering 21 new indoor and outdoor courts, is ahead of schedule. New entrances have been created for Hisense Arena and over at Margaret Court Arena preparations are being made to transform the building site back into a tennis arena for the 2013 Australian Open,” Mr Delahunty said.
  

  “Melbourne Park is already the envy of all other Grand Slams and this redevelopment will make the precinct even better.
  

  “In addition, this year’s State Budget has also provided $5.5 million to plan for Stage Two of the project ensuring Melbourne Park sets the standard for Grand Slam venues for decades to come.
  

  “The Victorian Coalition Government’s support for the Melbourne Park redevelopment demonstrates our strong commitment to tennis and the continuing improvement of our world class sports and entertainment facilities. It all adds up to a very exciting summer of tennis coming up in Melbourne,” Mr Delahunty said.
  

  Victorian Olympic Council (VOC) President Nick Green OAM said the VOC was delighted with the installation.
  
  “It is wonderful that in the year following our centenary celebrations, the Olympic Rings have been reinstated in the precinct,” Mr Green said
  

  “It is fitting that they hang above Olympic Boulevard on Edwin Flack Bridge which connects this new sporting precinct to the home of the 1956 Olympic Games. We are thrilled that the Olympic heritage will be preserved for generations to come.”

• 2012-10-02 - Melbourne Park redevelopment boosts Australian Open

  The 2013 Australian Open promises to be an extra special event with sections of the Victorian Coalition Government’s $366 million redevelopment of Melbourne Park to be open for the first time, Minister for Major Projects Denis Napthine announced today. 

  Speaking at the launch of the 2013 Australian Open, Dr Napthine said the Open was an important event for Victoria. 

  “The 2012 Australian Open had a record attendance of 686,000 people and attracted more than 135 million television viewers around the world,” Dr Napthine said.  

  “The Australian Open makes a vital contribution to Victoria, generating around 1,000 full time equivalent jobs and $164 million annually into the state’s economy. Beyond all this, it is a brilliant sporting spectacle and one of the great traditions of January in Melbourne. 

  “But as any tennis champion knows, you cannot rest on your laurels and that’s why the Coalition Government is continuing its work to transform the Melbourne Park precinct. 

  “Work on the Eastern Plaza and National Tennis Centre is well ahead of schedule with some elements likely to be finished before Christmas – a year earlier than expected.  

  “New entrances have been created for Hisense Arena and later tonight the final span of the new Edwin Flack footbridge will be lifted into place over Olympic Boulevard. 

  “The Edwin Flack Bridge will join with the newly constructed Eastern Plaza to create an unbroken pedestrian link running from the MCG, through Melbourne Park and finishing at AAMI Park. This fantastic new public space will be open later this year,” Dr Napthine said. 

  Dr Napthine said 1,500 extra seats and a new operable roof were also being installed at Margaret Court, making Melbourne the only Grand Slam to offer three operable roof stadiums. 

  “What is amazing about this part of the project is that in December this year the builders will pack up, and Margaret Court Arena will undergo a transformation from a building site to a tennis arena for the duration of the Open. Then afterwards, the builders will move back in and work will continue,” Dr Napthine said. 

  “The same thing will happen again in 2014, by which time we will have the steel roof frame in place and new seating plats installed. This will be a unique experience for everyone – there are not many building sites that host an international sporting event each year.  

  “The Melbourne Park Facilities are already the envy of other Grand Slams and when Stage One is complete in late 2014 they will be even better. 

  “The 2012/13 State Budget has also provided $5 million to plan Stage Two of the project, ensuring Melbourne Park sets the standard for Grand Slam venues for decades to come. 

  “Another major new initiative, announced last month by the Premier Ted Baillieu during the Coalition Government’s Super Trade Mission to China, is the introduction of the Australian Open Asia Pacific Wildcard Play-off, to be held in Nanjing later this month. Both the men’s and women’s competition winners will be awarded main draw wildcards into the Australian Open in 2013. 

  “This initiative and our support for the Melbourne Park redevelopment shows the Victorian Coalition’s strong commitment to tennis and the continuing improvement of our world class sports and entertainment facilities,” Dr Napthine said.
• 2012-10-02 - Final Span to be installed on Edwin Flack Bridge

  The final span of the new Edwin Flack Footbridge will be installed over Olympic Boulevard tonight, Minister for Major Projects Denis Napthine said today. 

  Dr Napthine said the new Edwin Flack bridge would combine with the new Eastern Plaza development to provide an unbroken pedestrian link connecting the MCG with Melbourne Park and AAMI Park. 

  “The bridge is a fantastic feature of the $366 million first stage of the Melbourne Park redevelopment,” Dr Napthine said. 

  “From 9.30pm tonight Olympic Boulevard will be closed to traffic as cranes lift in the final span of the footbridge. Work is expected to continue overnight with the road reopening at 5:00am on Wednesday. 

  “Once the span is bolted in, work will begin to lay a concrete deck on top of the steel work. Balustrades will be installed around mid-October followed by more finishing work. 

  “We expect the bridge – featuring two sets of historic Olympic rings from the 1956 Melbourne Olympic Games – to be open to the public in December and ready for the 2013 Australian Open.  

  “The Edwin Flack bridge will link up Melbourne’s renowned sporting precinct with the MCG and Yarra Park. It also provides a link to the area’s past by remembering Australia’s first Olympic champion Edwin Flack and the 1956 Games,” Dr Napthine said. 

  The first stage of the Melbourne Park Redevelopment is due for completion in late 2014 and includes: 

  • the new National Tennis Centre with eight indoor tennis courts, 13 outdoor tennis courts, a 1,000 space car park and an elevated Eastern Plaza public space; 
  • the upgrade and expansion of Margaret Court Arena, including an extra 1,500 seats and a fully operable roof; and
  • a 4.5 megalitre water tank under the Oval and considerable landscape improvements around the precinct. 

  “The Victorian Coalition Government has also provided funding in the 2012-13 State Budget for early design work for Stage 2 of the redevelopment, cementing our commitment to the future of world-class sporting and entertainment events in Melbourne,” Dr Napthine said. 
• 2012-09-17 - Work underway on Edwin Flack Bridge

  Pedestrians will soon have a new link between Melbourne Park and AAMI Stadium with work commencing on the new Edwin Flack Footbridge across Olympic Boulevard as part of the $366 million redevelopment of Melbourne’s premiere sporting precinct.
  

  Minister for Major Projects Denis Napthine said the new Edwin Flack Bridge would also connect with a new public plaza to provide an unbroken pedestrian walkway between the MCG and AAMI Park.
  

  “This bridge is a part of the $366 million first stage of the Melbourne Park redevelopment that is transforming Melbourne’s sporting and entertainment precinct,” Dr Napthine said.
  

  “The new bridge makes it easier for everyone to get around the tennis precinct and to travel between Melbourne Park, the MCG and AAMI Park.”
  

  Named after Australia’s first Olympic champion Edwin Flack, Dr Napthine said the new bridge has a practical and historical significance.
  

  “The bridge also re-establishes the link between Edwin Flack and the precinct. Flack lived in East Melbourne near the current Hilton Hotel and would have known the Melbourne Park area well. In addition, AAMI Park stadium was built on the former Edwin Flack Oval.
  

  “The bridge will also feature two sets of Olympic rings from the 1956 Melbourne Games, further cementing it to the area’s sporting history.”
  

  Dr Napthine said the first stage of the Melbourne Park redevelopment was due to be completed in late 2014, and primarily comprises three elements including:

  • construction of the National Tennis Centre with eight indoor tennis courts, 13 outdoor tennis courts, a 1,000 space car park and an elevated Eastern Plaza public space with above-ground connections to both the MCG and AAMI Park;
  • an upgrade and expansion of Margaret Court Arena, including an extra 1,500 seats and a fully operable roof; and
  • the installation of a 4.5 megalitre water tank under the Oval with considerable associated landscape improvements.
    

  Minister for Sport and Recreation Hugh Delahunty said the redevelopment of Melbourne Park was progressing extremely well and added that the Coalition Government had provided $ 5 million funding in the 2012-13 State Budget for scoping and early design works for Stage 2 of the project.
  

  “The Melbourne Park redevelopment represents a commitment towards continuous improvement of our world-class sporting and entertainment infrastructure,” Mr Delahunty said.
  

  The bridge spans will be installed in sections between now and mid-October with the project expected to be complete and open for use in December 2012. The various spans will be lifted in overnight to minimise the inconvenience of closing Olympic Boulevard. 

• 2012-06-25 - First Australian Olympian Edwin Flack honoured with new bridge

  A new footbridge from the MCG to AAMI Park is to be named after Australia’s first Olympian, ‘The Lion of Athens’ Edwin Flack, the Minister for Sport and Recreation Hugh Delahunty announced today.
  

  “The new Edwin Flack bridge will connect with the existing Brunton Avenue footbridge to provide an unbroken pedestrian link between the MCG and AAMI Park,” Mr Delahunty said.
  

  “Edwin Flack is the perfect choice for this new bridge. By any account he was an incredible man and the story of his performance at the 1896 Athens Olympics has inspired many Australian athletes.
  

  “Flack made his own way to Athens to unofficially represent Australia at the first modern Games. He won gold in the 800 metres and two days later backed it up with gold in the 1500 metres.
  

  “The next day he took on the marathon, despite never having run more than 10 miles in a competition. He led the field until the 36 kilometre mark when he collapsed from exhaustion. Flack recovered and fittingly also competed in the men’s singles and doubles tennis, picking up bronze in the doubles.
  

  “The Greeks recognised his incredible spirit and he became the star of the Games earning the nickname ‘The Lion of Athens’. Flack’s have-a-go attitude is still astounding today and coupled with his community work with the Australian Olympic Committee and the Alfred Hospital after the games, and the enduring legacy of the Flack Trust which still provides grants to medical research, social welfare and aged care, he is a true local hero,” Mr Delahunty said.
  

  Minister for Major Projects Dr Denis Napthine said the bridge would connect with the new Eastern Plaza public space under construction between Hisense Arena and the new National Tennis Centre. The work is all part of the $366 million Stage 1 of the Melbourne Park redevelopment
  

  “Flack had a long association with the Melbourne Park precinct, he lived in East Melbourne near the current Hilton Hotel and would have known the Melbourne Park area well. AAMI Park was also built on the former Edwin Flack Oval and so it is great to re-establish the link between his name and the precinct,” Mr Napthine said.
  

  “The new footbridge will help clear crowds from the MCG and AAMI Park concourses after games and make it easier for everyone to get around the precinct. The bridge will feature two sets of Olympic rings from the 1956 Melbourne Games, further cementing it to the area’s sporting history.
  

  Australian Olympic Chef de Mission and President of the Victorian Olympic Council Nick Green, said the Victorian Olympic Council was delighted with the announcement.
  

  “It’s terrific that in the year following our Centenary celebrations, Australia's first Olympic champion, Edwin Flack, will be recognised in perpetuity with the naming of this footbridge over Olympic Boulevard,” Mr Green said.
  

  Chair of the Melbourne and Olympic Parks Trust, Russell Caplan, said Melbourne and Olympic Parks had a rich sporting history encompassing Olympics, athletics and tennis.
  

  “No person transcends all of these sports more than Edwin Flack and we are proud to continue his legacy within our precinct,” Mr Caplan said.
  

  Dr Napthine said the Melbourne Park redevelopment was due to be completed in late 2014, and comprises three elements including:
  

  • the installation of a 4.5 megalitre water tank under the Oval with considerable associated landscape improvements;
  • construction of the National Tennis Centre’s eight indoor tennis courts, 13 outdoor tennis courts, a 1000 space car park and the elevated Eastern Plaza public space with above-ground connections to both the MCG and AAMI Park; and
  • an upgrade and expansion of Margaret Court Arena, including an extra 1,500 seats and a fully operable roof.

  “With further funding provided in this year’s budget for the development and planning of Stage 2 of the project, the Melbourne Park redevelopment represents a solid, value for money project that will deliver dividends for Victoria for decades to come,” Dr Napthine said.

• 2012-05-02 - Melbourne Park redevelopment nets extra funding

  The Victorian Coalition Government’s commitment to keeping the Grand Slam of Asia/Pacific in Melbourne until 2036 was further cemented today with a $5.5 million Budget announcement towards the next stage of redevelopment at Melbourne Park.
  
  Minister for Sport and Recreation Hugh Delahunty said the funding would be used to commence the design process and inform a business case for Stage 2 works at Australia’s home of tennis.
  
  “This Budget is shaped by the very real and serious challenges of the present, but its focus is on securing the future and positioning Victoria to take full advantage of current and future opportunities,” Mr Delahunty said.
  
  The business case will investigate the Stage 2 works which will include significant improvements to the centre of the Melbourne Park site, including the upgrading of Rod Laver Arena and, depending on the outcomes of the scoping process, a new Town Square and associated player, media and broadcast facilities.
  
  “Anyone who has recently visited Melbourne Park will see that Stage 1 works are well underway,” Mr Delahunty said.
  
  “This Budget is about driving economic activity, productivity and jobs, and we want to make this sport and entertainment precinct the best in the world for players, entertainers and spectators.
  
  “The next stage will ensure our world class Melbourne Park can continue to keep pace with the extraordinary growth of the Australian Open Tennis Championships and the significant number of events held outside of the Open.
  
  “This year’s Open attracted a record attendance of 686,000, of which 24 per cent of patrons were from interstate and 15 per cent were from overseas.
  
  “A full economic assessment of the 2008 event revealed the Open generated about 1000 full time equivalent jobs, injected $164 million into our economy and attracted 240 million viewers worldwide.
  
  “The preliminary estimates reveal the economic impact of the 2012 Open is likely to top those figures.
  
  “The Open is a key player in our $1 billion major sports events industry, and that’s why we’re investing in an event that gives so much back,” Mr Delahunty said.
  
  The Victorian Government has committed $363 million to Stage 1 of the redevelopment, which is due to be completed by late 2014 and involves three components including:
  

  • early works – the installation of a 4.5 megalitre water tank under the Oval with considerable associated landscape improvements;
    
  • Eastern Plaza – construction of eight indoor tennis courts, 13 outdoor tennis courts, a 1000 space car park and an elevated plaza with above-ground connections to both the MCG and AAMI Park; and
  • Western Precinct – an upgrade and expansion of Margaret Court Arena, including an extra 1500 seats and a fully operable roof. 
• 2012-01-18 - New design for Melbourne Park’s Western Precinct

  
  

  Melbourne will be the world’s first Grand Slam tennis venue to have three feature courts with operable roofs.
  

  Minister for Major Projects Denis Napthine and Minister for Sport Hugh Delahunty today unveiled the new design for Melbourne Park’s Western Precinct, which includes a redeveloped Margaret Court Arena with an operable roof and increased capacity by 1,500 to 7,500.
  

  It will also include the addition of a new indoor concourse area with improved patron facilities.
  

  “This fantastic new design is focused on people and creating an active and welcoming space. The roof will provide greater shade and rain protection for the public, while the new foyer spaces are light, airy and inviting,” Dr Napthine said.
  

  “New entry ways, amenities and internal connections shared with Rod Laver Arena will also make it easier for people to get around, especially during major events such as the Australian Open.
  

  “Nearly the whole perimeter of the arena is glassed in with spectacular views of the city skyline. Inside the foyer, a timber feature wall has shapes cut out of it to mimic the trajectory of a bouncing ball.
  

  “The ‘pleated’ roof design complements the adjacent Rod Laver Arena while giving the new Margaret Court Arena a stand-alone identity. I commend the architects NH Architecture and Populous for their clever work in taking an existing open air arena and creating a totally new facility.
  

  “The Australian Open makes a vital contribution to Victoria, generating around 1,000 full time equivalent jobs and $164 million annually into the State’s economy.  That is why the Victorian Coalition Government is making such a substantial investment of $363 million in Melbourne Park’s redevelopment.
  

  “Providing a third operable-roof arena, expected to be completed in 2015, is the last element of this development which also includes the new Eastern Plaza and tennis training facility, a new events area on Batman Avenue, landscaping on the Oval and a water recycling system,” Dr Napthine said.
  

  Minister for Sport and Recreation Hugh Delahunty said the new Margaret Court Arena will further enhance Melbourne’s renowned suite of sporting facilities.
  

  “One of the reasons Melbourne is the sporting capital is our range of quality venues,” Mr Delahunty said.
  

  “The upgraded Margaret Court Arena will provide a versatile mid-range venue for tennis, netball and basketball, between the 3,500-seat State Netball and Hockey Centre and the 11,000-seat Hisense Arena. It can also be configured for concerts, further improving one of the busiest entertainment precincts in the world.
  

  “The whole Melbourne Park redevelopment is about boosting Melbourne’s capacity for sporting and entertainment events, which will help secure major events such as the Australian Open for many years to come.
  

  “Patrons coming to the Open this year will already feel the benefits of the redevelopment. The new western concourse events area is in use, the Oval has some fantastic landscaping, and there is a vastly improved connection to the rest of the action via a permanent stairway down from Rod Laver Arena.
  

  “With up to 700,000 people expected at the Open this year and numbers forecast to increase in future, the Victorian Government is working to make sure patrons and players enjoy the very best facilities,” Mr Delahunty said. 

  Watch the animation
  

   

• 2011-10-24 - Lend Lease hits a winner at Margaret Court Arena
  Lend Lease has won the tender for the $180 million redevelopment of Margaret Court Arena as part of the ongoing work at Melbourne Park, the Minister for Major Projects Denis Napthine announced today.
  
  “Margaret Court Arena is set to undergo a major upgrade which will include the installation of an operable roof, a fully enclosed foyer and concourse area, and also cater for an additional 1,500 seats,” Dr Napthine said.
  
  “This work will form stage 1 of the western precinct works with Rod Laver Arena also to benefit from new shared facilities created by the Margaret Court Arena upgrade.
  
  “When complete the project will give Melbourne Park a third all-weather venue to complement its existing suite of fantastic sport and entertainment facilities.
  
  “The Victorian Coalition Government was delighted with the response to the tender with many of Australia’s leading construction companies making a bid.
  
  “Lend Lease is bringing a high-quality team as well as valuable experience and understanding to the Western Precinct project. The company has a strong history of public work in Melbourne with projects such as the award winning Melbourne Recital Centre and MTC Theatre.
  
  “Lend Lease will now step up to the challenge of delivering the Margaret Court Arena upgrade while working next to Australia’s busiest entertainment venue and in the heart of the country’s biggest annual sporting event, the Australian Open.
  
  “They will now begin detailed planning for the project with architects NH Architecture and Populous. Construction is expected to begin in March next year,” Dr Napthine said.
  The Western Precinct project is part of the $366 million first stage of the Melbourne Park Redevelopment to be completed in time for the 2015 Australian Open.
  
  Works at the Eastern Plaza precinct of Melbourne Park continue with the Minister for Sport Hugh Delahunty last week unveiling a new underground water recycling system, riverside deck and landscaping works.
• 2011-10-19 - New water recycling system to reduce Melbourne Park’s water use

  A new water recycling system at Melbourne Park will reduce the precinct’s water use by 72 per cent, the Minister for Sport and Recreation Hugh Delahunty said today.
  

  Speaking on site during a tour with the Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Sustainability and Urban Water, Senator Don Farrell, Mr Delahunty said the water system and extensive landscaping works were the first elements of the Melbourne Park redevelopment to be completed.
  

  “The Melbourne Park redevelopment project is transforming Victoria’s world class sporting and entertainment precinct. The works completed to date include a new precinct-wide storm water recycling system, major landscaping works and the creation of a new events area to improve patron amenity and sustainability of the Park,” Mr Delahunty said.
  

  “When fully operational the new water recycling system is expected to save 45 megalitres, or 18 Olympic swimming pools, worth of drinking water each year and reduce the precinct’s annual mains water use by an average of 72 per cent.
  

  Mr Delahunty said previously most stormwater from the site had flowed directly into the Yarra River.
  

  “Under the new system, water will be stored in a 4.5 megalitre underground tank built underneath The Oval between Rod Laver Arena and Hisense Arena. From there, the water is treated and will be used to irrigate the extensive gardens and trees around the precinct as well as for cleaning tennis courts and flushing toilets,” Mr Delahunty said
  

  Mr Delahunty said The Oval and western edge of Melbourne Park had been extensively reworked.
  

  “A great new events space has been created on the Batman Avenue side of the precinct with the Riverside Deck overlooking the Yarra, lovely views of the city and a permanent grassed area for marquees,” Mr Delahunty said.
  

  “In addition, a grand staircase has been built from the Rod Laver concourse down to The Oval, which now makes it easier than ever to get around the precinct.
  

  “There are 41 new trees and more than 24,000 new plants have been sown around The Oval and the western edge of Melbourne Park.
  

  “The water system and landscaping improvements are the first step in the Victorian Government’s multi-million dollar upgrade of the Melbourne Park sporting precinct that will keep the Australian Open in Victoria for years to come.
  

  “Melbourne’s sporting facilities and arenas are a driving force behind our recognition as the sporting capital and the most liveable city in the world. These plans for the redevelopment of the precinct will ensure Melbourne remains the envy of the world,” Mr Delahunty said.
  Melbourne and Olympic Parks Trust chairman Russell Caplan said the new works would be appreciated by the tens of thousand of Victorians who regularly use the precinct.
  

  “The major improvements to the Western Plaza and The Oval, just completed as part of the Melbourne Park Redevelopment, will enhance the enjoyment of our patrons and those who use the parkland generally,” Mr Caplan said.
  

  “The landscaping really lifts the visual appeal of The Oval and the underground water harvesting system minimises the precinct's water consumption. As the Eastern Plaza works gather momentum, I'm sure Melburnians will be delighted when they see the further enhancements to this remarkable sport and entertainment precinct.”
  

  Watch the animation

   

• 2011-04-19 - Architects Appointed to Roof Margaret Court Arena

  A joint venture between Melbourne’s NH Architecture and international firm Populous will design a major refurbishment of Margaret Court Arena, Minister for Major Projects Denis Napthine announced today.
  

  Dr Napthine said the project, also known as the Western Precinct project, will include a roof for the arena and will increase the venue’s capacity, providing a major boost for Melbourne’s sporting facilities.
  

  “Building an operable roof over Margaret Court Arena and enlarging its capacity is the final element of the $363 million first stage of the Melbourne Park redevelopment,” Mr Napthine said.
  
  “The project will provide the Australian Open with a third all-weather court and will benefit other sports including netball and basketball.
  
  “NH Architecture is a respected Melbourne firm which designed the award winning Melbourne Convention Centre and the recently opened Myer Melbourne Redevelopment.
  
  “Design partner Populous is an internationally renowned firm which specialise in sports arenas, having worked on the redevelopment of Wimbledon. Populous also worked on the Melbourne Park Masterplan with COX Architects ensuring consistency with the overall precinct design.”
  
  The Western Precinct project will add an extra 1,500 seats to the 23-year-old Margaret Court Arena, bringing its capacity to 7,500 and filling an important gap in Melbourne’s famous suite of sporting venues.
  
  “When complete, Margaret Court will provide a useful mid-range venue for netball and basketball, filling the gap between the 3,500-seat State Netball and Hockey Centre and 11,000-seat Hisense Arena,” Dr Napthine said.
  
  “Having a venue of this size will be an important part of the growth of these popular sports and the continued development of Victoria’s unparalleled sports precinct.
  
  “Fans will benefit from a new undercover concourse connecting Margaret Court Arena to Rod Laver Arena as well as a more comfortable environment to watch matches,” Dr Napthine said.
  
  Melbourne and Olympic Parks Chairman Russell Caplan said the Western Precinct project was an exciting development which reinforced Melbourne’s international reputation as the home of sport and entertainment.
  
  “The Margaret Court Arena refurbishment adds to our outstanding suite of world-class venues. The Melbourne and Olympic Parks precinct will boast three international standard arenas, all with retractable roofs - an international football stadium, and elite training and recreation facilities,” Mr Caplan said.
  
  A process to select a builder for the project is underway with an appointment expected later this year. Construction will start in mid 2012 and is scheduled to be operational in 2015.
  
  Elsewhere at Melbourne Park work is underway on the Eastern Plaza tennis facility featuring 21 new indoor and outdoor tennis courts.
• 2011-03-25 - Coalition Government Marks Start of Work at Eastern Plaza

  The Coalition Government has continued its support for world-class major projects by marking the start of work today at Victoria’s latest major sporting facility, the Eastern Plaza tennis centre at Melbourne Park.
  
  Turning the first sod at Eastern Plaza this morning, Premier Ted Baillieu, Minister for Sport and Recreation Hugh Delahunty and Minister for Major Projects Dr Denis Napthine said the building would be vital in the development of new Australian sporting talent.
  
  Joined by members of Tennis Australia’s kids starter program MLC Tennis Hot Shots, Mr Baillieu said Eastern Plaza will provide training courts for future generations of young talent as well as elite tennis players.
  
  “Tennis is a big growth sport in Victoria and the Australian Open at Melbourne Park is an enormously popular major event,” Mr Baillieu said.
  
  “Eastern Plaza will host elite tennis competitions as well as giving tennis players at all levels the opportunity to hire courts and enjoy the very best tennis facilities available.”
  
  Mr Delahunty said that Eastern Plaza would help ensure Victoria remained the home of Australian tennis.
  
  “The Eastern Plaza is another step in the Government’s multi-million dollar upgrade of the Melbourne Park sporting precinct that will keep the Australian Open in Victoria for years to come,” Mr Delahunty said.
  
  “Beyond the new courts and training facilities, the Eastern Plaza project will also greatly improve how people travel around Melbourne Park, providing a raised public plaza that will link with the MCG to the north and AAMI Park across the road and opening up the whole sports precinct for fans.”
  
  Major Projects Minister Dr Denis Napthine said the new building was part of a plan to vastly improve the experience for fans at the Open and the hundreds of other events at Melbourne Park each year.
  
  “The Eastern Plaza design separates the public spaces from the operational areas underneath, improving safety and comfort for fans while enabling uninterrupted access for event operation and logistics personnel and equipment,” Dr Napthine said.
  
  “This fresh, light and functional design will create a wonderful environment for players and fans, massively increasing the number of trees and gardens to improve the amenity of the area.”
  
  Tennis Australia’s Chief Executive Officer Steve Wood said the new training facilities that are being built as part of the Eastern Plaza project will give tennis the opportunity to grow from the junior level through to the elite level in the years to come.
  
  “We look forward to continuing to work closely with the Coalition Government and Melbourne and Olympic Parks Trust on this project and securing the future of tennis in this country,” Mr Wood said.
  
  The Eastern Plaza project will incorporate:
  

  • eight new indoor tennis courts and 13 new outdoor courts;
  • warm-up and warm-down facilities for athletes;
  • an elevated plaza providing new public space and a new eastern entry to Hisense Arena;
  • multi-level underground parking for up to 1000 cars and 30 buses;
  • an upgraded western entry to Hisense Arena; and
  • a pedestrian bridge over Olympic Boulevard completing a direct pedestrian link between the MCG, Melbourne Park and AAMI Park.

  The Eastern Plaza is the second component of the $363 million first stage of the Melbourne Park redevelopment project, which is scheduled to be completed in time for the 2015 Australian Open.
  
  Major Projects Victoria will continue to work with the Department of Planning and Community Development, the Melbourne and Olympic Parks Trust and Tennis Australia to manage the redevelopment.

• 2011-01-25 - Melbourne Park’s New Eastern Plaza Unveiled at Australian Open

  Minister for Sport and Recreation Hugh Delahunty and Minister for Major Projects Denis Napthine have unveiled the design for Victoria’s latest major sporting facility, the Eastern Plaza tennis centre at Melbourne Park.
  

  Mr Delahunty said that Eastern Plaza was another significant step in the process of securing the long term future of Melbourne as Australia’s home of Grand Slam tennis.

  “The Eastern Plaza is a vital part of the Government’s multi-million dollar upgrade of the Melbourne Park sporting precinct, and its fresh, light and functional design really sets the scene for the entire redevelopment,” Mr Delahunty said.
  

  “The Victorian Government’s commitment to the upgrade of Melbourne Park not only secures the future of Melbourne as the home of the Australian Open, but also gives Victorians access to world-class tennis facilities.”
  

  Dr Napthine said the Eastern Plaza will incorporate key features including a sporting campus with indoor and outdoor tennis training facilities and a new piazza-style public space for fans and visitors.
  

  “Eastern Plaza will provide world-class training facilities for tennis stars, as well as providing a venue for Tennis Australia’s young player development programs. Members of the public will be able to hire courts and enjoy this latest addition to our world-beating sports precinct,” Dr Napthine said.
  

  Minister Napthine said construction firm Watpac would build Eastern Plaza with a consultant team including Daryl Jackson Architecture, Winward Structures and WSP Lincolne Scott.
  

  “Watpac and their team including architect Daryl Jackson have done a fantastic job in designing this vital element of the Melbourne Park precinct that is set to benefit both Australian tennis and community users. We are delighted to be working with such high calibre professionals on this significant project,” Dr Napthine said.
  

  The Eastern Plaza will incorporate:
  

  • eight new indoor tennis courts and 13 new outdoor courts;

  • warm up and warm down facilities for athletes;

  • an elevated plaza providing new public space and a new eastern entry to Hisense Arena;
    

  • multilevel parking for up to 1000 cars and 30 buses;

  • an upgraded western entry to Hisense Arena; and

  • a pedestrian bridge over Olympic Boulevard completing a direct pedestrian link between the MCG, Melbourne Park and AAMI Park.
    

  Major Projects Victoria (MPV) will continue to work with the Department of Planning and Community Development, the Melbourne and Olympic Parks Trust and Tennis Australia to manage the redevelopment.

  Melbourne and Olympic Parks Trust Chairman Russell Caplan said Melbourne Park’s venues and setting were internationally renowned and the redevelopment of Melbourne Park would ensure it remained the world’s leading sports and entertainment precinct.
  

  “The next stage will not only expand on the superb existing sporting facilities, it will greatly improve the amenities and enhance the experience for the millions of visitors to our venues each year,” Mr Caplan said.
  

  Tennis Australia’s Chief Executive Officer Steve Wood said he appreciated the ongoing support from the Victorian Government.

  “The Melbourne Park redevelopment will provide a major boost for the tournament and the continual growth of tennis in Australia,” Mr Wood said. “With the new world-class training facilities we can grow our junior development programs throughout the year and also provide the best facilities for all the stars in January.
  

  “We look forward to working closely with the Victorian Government and Melbourne and Olympic Parks over the coming years and securing the future of the Australian Open in Melbourne,” Mr Wood said.
  

  The Eastern Plaza works are expected to commence in early 2011. Stage one of the Melbourne Park redevelopment is expected to be completed in time for the 2015 Australian Open.
  

   

• 2010-12-23 - Watpac Announced as Preferred Tenderer for Melbourne Park Eastern Plaza

  Watpac Construction is the preferred tenderer for the design and construction contract of Melbourne Park’s new Eastern Plaza project.
  
  Watpac was one of three companies (along with Bovis Lend Lease and Grocon) invited to tender for the project in July 2010 following expressions of interest from nine contractors.
  
  Watpac's consultant team for the project includes Daryl Jackson Architecture, Winward Structures and WSP Lincolne Scott.
  
  The Eastern Plaza is the second part of the $363 million Stage One of the Melbourne Park redevelopment.
  
  The Eastern Plaza project includes:

  • eight new indoor tennis courts and 13 new outdoor courts;
  • warm up and warm down facilities for athletes
  • an elevated plaza providing new public space and a new eastern entry to Hisense Arena
  • a new landscaped entrance to Melbourne Park on Olympic Boulevard
  • multilevel parking for up to 1000 cars and 30 buses
  • an upgraded western entry to Hisense Arena
  • a pedestrian bridge over Olympic Boulevard completing a direct pedestrian link between the MCG, Melbourne Park and AAMI Park.
    

  Major Projects Victoria (MPV) will work with Sport and Recreation Victoria, the Melbourne and Olympic Parks Trust and Tennis Australia to manage redevelopment.
  
  The Eastern Plaza works are expected to commence in early 2011. Stage one of the Melbourne Park redevelopment is expected to be completed in 2015.
  
  

• 2010-12-08 - Architects Shortlisted for Melbourne Park Western Precinct
  Architecture firms Cox Architecture, Populous / NH Architecture, Grimshaw Architects, and Hassell Ltd have been shortlisted for the Melbourne Park redevelopment’s Western Precinct project.
  
  The firms will be asked to submit tenders for the project which includes roofing over Margaret Court Arena and refurbishing the public concourses around Rod Laver Arena.
  
  The four firms were selected from a list of eleven who responded to a call for expressions of interest in late September 2010.
  
  The Western Precinct project is one of the key parts of the $363 million Stage One of the Melbourne Park redevelopment which also includes a major tennis training facility, car parking and a civic plaza to the east of Hisense Arena dubbed the Eastern Plaza to commence construction next year and major landscaping works adjacent to Rod Laver Arena currently underway.
  
  The Western Precinct project includes:
  
  

  • the enclosure of  Melbourne Park's third largest show court - Margaret Court Arena including the provision of an opening and closing roof;
  • an additional 1500 seats in Margaret Court Arena to bring it to a capacity of 7,500;
  • the extension and refurbishment of the public concourse around Rod Laver Arena; and,
  • upgrades to the undercroft areas of Rod Laver Arena.

  
  Design work is scheduled to commence following the 2011 Australian Open while the procurement process for a building contractor for these works will occur in late 2011. Work is scheduled to commence on site shortly after the 2012 Australian Open.
  
  
• 2010-07-27 - Shortlist for Melbourne Park Eastern Plaza Works

  Three companies have been invited to submit tenders for the $125 million design and construct contract for the Eastern Plaza project as part of the Brumby Labor Government’s $363 million Melbourne Park redevelopment

  Major Projects Minister Tim Pallas announced today that construction companies Grocon, Bovis Lend Lease and Watpac had been shortlisted from the field of nine who responded to the initial request for Expressions of Interest.

  “The Brumby Labor Government is taking action to invest in projects such as the Melbourne Park redevelopment that generate jobs and strengthen the local economy,” Mr Pallas said.

  “The response from the industry reflects the high level of interest in this major redevelopment that will secure the future of the Australian Open in Melbourne until at least 2036 and improve the city’s world-renowned sporting and entertainment facilities.

  “This will be a challenging and complex project with construction taking place while Melbourne’s premier events precinct is in full operation. Once complete the new Eastern Plaza will allow facilities to be moved from the western side of the park to make way for subsequent stages.”

  The Eastern Plaza is one of three parts to Stage 1 of the Melbourne Park project and includes:

  • Eight new indoor tennis courts and 13 new outdoor courts;
  • Warm up and warm down facilities for athletes;
  • An elevated plaza providing new public space and a new eastern entry to Hisense Arena;
  • A new landscaped entrance to Melbourne Park on Olympic Boulevard;
  • 1,000 car spaces and up to 30 bus parks over two levels;
  • An upgraded western entry to Hisense Arena; and
  • A pedestrian bridge over Olympic Boulevard completing a direct pedestrian link between the MCG, Melbourne Park and AAMI Park.

  Stage 1 of the Melbourne Park redevelopment will deliver more than 600 construction jobs on and off site and around $1 billion in flow-on economic benefit to the building industry.

  Sports Minister James Merlino said the first stage alone was the largest Government-funded sports facility project ever seen in Victoria, bigger than the 1956 Olympics and the 2006 Commonwealth Games.

  “The Brumby Labor Government’s ongoing investment in improving and updating Melbourne’s unbeatable network of sporting infrastructure is a key factor in our reputation as the sporting events capital of the world,” Mr Merlino said.

  “The subsequent stages to be built over the next 15 years will totally revitalise Melbourne Park as an event venue with significant improvements to pedestrian connectivity and amenity.”

  The Eastern Plaza will be built in the area of Melbourne Park between Hisense Arena and Punt Road. Stage One is expected to be finished in 2015.

   

• 2010-05-01 - Work starts on Melbourne Park redevelopment

  Construction is underway on the $363 million first stage of the Brumby Labor Government’s Melbourne Park redevelopment that will secure the future of the Australian Open in Victoria.
  
  Major Projects Minister Tim Pallas and Sport and Recreation Minister James Merlino were joined by Australian tennis star Casey Dellacqua at Melbourne Park to turn the first sod on the project.
  
  Mr Pallas said redevelopment of the famous tennis facility was the largest Government-funded sporting project in Victoria's history.
  
  "The Brumby Labor Government is taking action to invest in projects such as the Melbourne Park redevelopment that generate thousands of jobs, stimulate the local economy and in this case, secure Grand-Slam tennis for Victoria," Mr Pallas said.
  
  "This project will transform this whole area with new state-of-the-art facilities that will reinforce its position as the world’s leading sports and entertainment precinct.
  
  "Stage One of the Melbourne Park redevelopment will deliver more than 600 construction jobs on and off site and around $1 billion in flow-on economic benefit to the building industry.
  
  "These first works include the installation of a 4.5 megalitre water tank under the oval beside Rod Laver Arena, an extension of the arena’s western concourse, taxi rank improvements on Olympic Boulevard and landscaping works along Batman Avenue.
  
  "Stage One will also upgrade Margaret Court Arena with a new retractable roof and additional seating to increase crowd capacity to 7500, create a new Eastern Plaza with indoor and outdoor courts, refurbish Rod Laver Arena and Hisense Arena, and create additional parking and a footbridge linking Melbourne Park to AAMI Park."
  
  Mr Merlino said the Australian Open would continue to grow, with annual crowds of more than one million people forecast in the next 20 years.
  
  "This project will benefit players and fans alike and secure Grand-Slam tennis in Melbourne for years to come," Mr Merlino said.
  
  "As well as extending the life of our tennis arenas, this investment will also open up opportunities for other sports, such as netball and basketball, as well as concerts and other events.
  
  "As part of the greatest major projects program in Victoria’s history, work is finishing on AAMI Park across the road as we begin another large scale project to improve our sporting facilities."
  
  Tennis Australia president Geoff Pollard said the redevelopment provided a major boost for the tournament and the future of the game in Australia.
  
  "This is another giant step in the continued evolvement and growth of the biggest sporting event in the world in January. Since moving to Melbourne Park the Australian Open has become a more than equal partner with other Grand Slams on any criteria you wish to measure whether it be facilities, attendance, player support, ranking points or prizemoney," Mr Pollard said.
  
  "The Victorian Government’s incredible support means we can maintain this momentum and this event and venue remains the players’ favourite."
  
  Melbourne and Olympic Parks Trust chairman Russell Caplan welcomed the start of works on the redevelopment.
  
  "Today’s announcement, together with the completion of AAMI Park, cements our position as Australia’s number one sport and entertainment precinct," Mr Caplan said.
  
  The complex works will be staged so the Australian Open can continue to function successfully for the duration of the project. Stage One is expected to be finished in 2015.

• 2010-03-24 - Work set to begin on Melbourne Park redevelopment

  Bovis Lend Lease has been appointed managing contractor of early works on the $363 million first stage of the Brumby Labor Government’s Melbourne Park redevelopment, Major Projects Minister Tim Pallas announced today.

  Mr Pallas said Bovis Lend Lease had signed on to deliver the 2010 works package as part of the first stage of the landmark redevelopment, that will guarantee the Australian Open remains in Melbourne till at least 2036.

  “The Brumby Labor Government is taking action to invest in projects such as the Melbourne Park redevelopment that generate thousands of jobs, stimulate the local economy and in this case, secure Grand-Slam tennis for Victoria,” Mr Pallas said.

  “Melbourne is internationally renowned for its sporting and entertainment facilities, and like the nearby AAMI Park, this project will take us to a whole new level for players and spectators alike.

  “The $20 million 2010 works package includes the installation of a 4.5 mega litre water tank under the oval beside Rod Laver Arena, an extension of the arena’s western concourse, taxi rank improvements on Olympic Boulevard and landscaping works along Batman Avenue.

  “The water tank is a particularly exciting development that forms part of a precinct-wide water management system that will ensure the sustainability of Melbourne Park for decades to come.”

  Mr Pallas said with a budget of $363 million, Stage One of the Melbourne Park redevelopment would deliver more than 600 construction jobs on and off site and approximately $1 billion in flow-on economic benefit to the building industry.

  “This is going to be an exciting and complex project, with work to be staged in such a way that the Australian Open can continue to function successfully for the duration of the project. We expect to finish Stage One in 2015,” he said.

  Bovis Lend Lease General Manager Geoff Moore said the company had a great history in the Melbourne Park precinct.

  “Bovis Lend Lease is pleased to return to Melbourne Park, having delivered the Rod Laver Arena in the late 1980s, and to be a part of ensuring that the precinct continues to be one of the world’s premier sporting venues,” Mr Moore said.

  In addition to the 2010 works package, Stage One of the project includes:

  • a major upgrade to fully enclose Margaret Court Arena, including the installation of a retractable roof and additional seating to increase crowd capacity to 7,500
  • a new Eastern Plaza, incorporating eight new indoor courts and 13 outdoor courts for elite training and general public use as well as change room facilities and a gymnasium
  • refurbishments to Rod Laver Arena and Hisense Arena
  • additional parking and a footbridge linking Melbourne Park to AAMI Park.
• 2010-01-19 - $363 million boost keeps Australian Open in Melbourne

  Melbourne Park will remain the home of the Australian Open for generations to come thanks to a multi-million dollar transformation of the world-class sporting precinct.

  Premier John Brumby said a major facelift to Margaret Court Arena – including the installation of a new retractable roof and an additional 1500 seats – and a new Eastern Plaza that will house 21 new courts, were the major highlights of the $363 million first stage of the redevelopment.

  “Victorians are passionate about their sport and the Australian Open is one of the major highlights on Melbourne’s world-class international sporting calendar,” Mr Brumby said.

  “The Open is the biggest sporting event anywhere in the world for the month of January and is the largest annual event in the southern hemisphere – that’s why the Victorian Government is making this significant investment to keep this prestigious tournament in Victoria.

  “More than 600,000 people attended the 2009 Australian Open, with a third of those coming from interstate and overseas, generating more than $160 million for the Victorian economy.

  “This major redevelopment is the single biggest investment in the precinct since the Australian Open moved to Melbourne Park from Kooyong more than two decades ago and it will ensure Melbourne continues to lead the way as the world’s best sports city.

  “The world’s best players love coming to Melbourne and our significant investment in Melbourne Park will guarantee the Australian Open remains in Victoria until at least 2036.”

  Mr Brumby said Stage One of the redevelopment included:

  • A major upgrade to fully enclose Margaret Court Arena, including the installation of a retractable roof and additional seating to increase crowd capacity to 7,500;
  • A new Eastern Plaza, incorporating eight new indoor courts and 13 outdoor courts for elite training and general public use as well as change room facilities and a gymnasium;
  • Refurbishments to Rod Laver Arena and Hisense Arena; and

  Additional parking and a footbridge linking Melbourne Park to the Rectangular Stadium.

  Sports Minister James Merlino said the project was a major boost for both players and fans.

  “The Australian Open is one of our great events and its popularity will continue to grow, with annual crowds of more than one million people forecast in the next 20 years,” Mr Merlino said.

  “That’s why the Brumby Labor Government is investing heavily in our sporting infrastructure, like the Melbourne Park precinct, so we can continue to attract the big sporting events to our state.

  “As well as extending the life of Rod Laver Arena, Margaret Court and Hisense Arena, our $363 million investment will also help open up opportunities for other sports, such as netball and basketball, as well as concerts and other events.”

  Tennis Australia President Geoff Pollard said the redevelopment provided a major boost for the tournament and the future of the game in Australia.

  “This is an historic day for tennis and the culmination of a lot of work by a lot of people,” Mr Pollard said.

  “Full credit goes to the Victorian Government for its ongoing support, and its foresight in recognising the future growth of tennis and the Australian Open.”

  Melbourne and Olympic Parks Trust Chairman Russell Caplan said the announcement would help Melbourne Park continue to attract big events.

  “This redevelopment reinforces our position as the world’s premier sporting and entertainment precinct,” Mr Caplan said.

  Mr Brumby said immediate works would begin shortly after the Australian Open and include improved connections between Rod Laver and Hisense Arena, the installation of new underground water recycling facilities and re-landscaping of the oval.

  “Melbourne Park is part of the Melbourne and Olympic Parks Precinct, which each year hosts around 600 events and attracts more than two million people,” Mr Brumby said.

  Stage One of the project is scheduled for completion in time for the 2015 Australian Open.

• 2009-01-25 - Premier unveils vision to redevelop Melbourne’s home of grand slam

  A major stadium redevelopment and a piazza-style Town Square are part of a new vision to ensure Melbourne Park remains a world-class sporting precinct and the home of the Australian Open tennis tournament until 2036.

  Premier John Brumby today unveiled the proposal and said it would better cater for the growing popularity of the Australian Open and establish Melbourne Park as an unbeatable sports and events precinct.

  “The proposal places a strong emphasis on the comfort of patrons with more open space and shade, increased seating capacity, better connections to public transport and the city and easier movement into and within Melbourne Park,” he said

  “The plan also proposes a new Town Square in the centre of Melbourne Park, which has the potential to become an important Melbourne meeting place. The vision includes a lightweight roof to provide shade and protection for patrons.”

  Mr Brumby said advancing Melbourne’s reputation as the home of Australian tennis is a major focus of the vision.

  He said the Victorian Government would invest $5 million to progress the proposal to redevelop Melbourne Park, helping to secure the Grand Slam of Asia/Pacific on Victoria’s world-class calendar of major sporting events beyond 2016.

  “It has been 21 years since the Australian Open was moved from Kooyong to its new home at Melbourne Park, and since that time the Open has grown to impressive new heights, last year attracting 605,000 patrons, compared to 250,000 patrons back in 1988,” Mr Brumby said

  “The Open also makes a significant contribution to Victoria, generating around 1000 equivalent full time jobs, injecting $164 million into the economy and raising the tourism profile of our great city with almost 240 million viewers worldwide.

  “Now is the time to take a look at how we can refresh and improve this terrific precinct to ensure it remains a world-class facility and continues to meet the needs of the tournament.

  “Improved players facilities, more practice courts, an International Broadcast Centre and better media facilities to showcase Melbourne to the world are also earmarked. A roof for Margaret Court Arena – the first of its kind in Grand Slam tennis – and new Tennis Australia Headquarters have also been proposed.”

  The President of Tennis Australia Geoff Pollard said he was delighted with the strong support shown to the Australian Open, and tennis in Australia from the Victorian Government.

  “Tennis Australia is excited by the proposal to upgrade Melbourne Park to ensure the Australian Open remains in Melbourne for the long term. We look forward to working with the Brumby Government to finalise a capital works program and new commercial and operating agreements with the Melbourne and Olympic Park Trust,” Mr Pollard said.

  “The Victorian Government has always been a strong supporter of Australian tennis and the Australian Open. Today’s announcement is a great step towards an agreement which will ensure the Open remains in Melbourne until 2036.”

  Mr Brumby said the $5 million would be used to develop the capital works program for Melbourne Park.

  “The funding will also be used to prepare detailed design and costings on the first stage of the project, ensuring it can be carried out while the Open continues to operate,” Mr Brumby said

  “Our current arrangement to host the Australian Open until 2016 is now fast approaching and we are working to ensure Melbourne retains this important event for a further 20 years.”

  The development of the proposal follows $1.5 million of funding announced last year to scope the possible future requirements of Melbourne Park.

  Melbourne Park is part of the Melbourne and Olympic Parks Precinct, which each year hosts around 600 events and attracts more than two million people. In recent years the Victorian Government has invested more than $400 million in the MCG redevelopment , as well as the Melbourne Rectangular Stadium , which is currently under construction.