Sod turned for new $6m Ryder Pavilion

Work is officially under way to redevelop Parkville’s Ryder Pavilion into a modern, multi-purpose facility.

The $6.1-million project will see a new expanded facility featuring six gender neutral accessible change rooms, umpire change rooms, kitchen, and social spaces.     

Set to open in 2025, the Ryder Pavilion redevelopment will be the third accessible sporting facility delivered in recent years – following the completion of the Western Pavilion and Brens Pavilion redevelopments. 

The old Ryder Pavilion, located near the corner of Park St and The Avenue, was demolished in April, after contractors had completed works to upgrade the electrical and water supply systems.

The new building will have a range of sustainability features including double-glazed windows, rainwater collection to use for toilet flushing, solar panels and electric appliance design, energy efficient LED lighting, and water-efficient fixtures. 

To celebrate the start of the pavilion’s redevelopment, Lord Mayor Sally Capp joined the council’s transport, infrastructure and operations deputy portfolio lead Cr Davydd Griffiths in an official sod turning event on May 27.

Lord Mayor Sally Capp and Cr Davydd Griffiths celebrate an official sod turning event for the redevelopment of Ryder Pavilion. Photos: Hanna Komissarova.

“We know the best things come in threes and work is well under way on redeveloping our third pavilion in Royal Park – giving grassroots sporting clubs the facilities they deserve,” Cr Capp said.

“We’re so proud to see how the completed Brens and Western pavilions have made local sport even better and we’re certain the new Ryder Pavilion will do the same – creating a contemporary and inclusive space for everyone – players, umpires and family spectators.”   

Cr Griffiths said, “As our community grows and more kids take to the field, it’s vital our grassroots clubs have the facilities and resources they need to succeed.”

While works take place, temporary facilities for sport clubs will be available on-site.

The council confirmed it worked with stakeholders, including Heritage Victoria, to relocate an electrical switchboard in February after it was obscuring the view of the heritage scoreboard on Ryder Oval.  

“The initial location of the switchboard was approved by Heritage Victoria,” the council said. 

“Relocation costs were managed within the existing project budget.”

The development is being delivered in partnership with the state government.

The council allocated $4.25 million towards the project in its draft 2024/25 budget after spending $1.25 million and $695,000 in its previous two budgets. •