The celebration featured an exciting women’s cricket derby between Lesmurdie Mazenod and Forrestfield, showcasing the growing momentum behind female sport in the community. 

These essential upgrades were made possible by the Ray Owen Recovery Grant from the State Government, contributions from the WA Football Commission and WA Cricket via the Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund (ACIF), and over $1.2 million allocated by the City of Kalamunda in the 2023–2024 Budget. 

As part of the celebration, the changerooms received a special gift—a signed 2024 Women’s National Cricket League bat.

Mayor Margaret Thomas shared her enthusiasm: “It’s fantastic to see our local facilities being upgraded. These changes provide better resources and more opportunities for women to participate in sport. This project is a great example of how investing in infrastructure can benefit both current and future generations of athletes.”

WA Cricket’s Infrastructure & Local Government Relations Manager, Brodie Green, echoed this sentiment: “WA Cricket, through the Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund (ACIF), is proud to support projects like the upgraded changerooms at Ray Owen Reserve. These upgrades will enhance the experience for all participants and support the growth of women and girls’ participation by providing a welcoming environment for all players, officials, volunteers and other users of the site.”

West Australian Football Commission CEO Michael Roberts also praised the project: “The upgraded changeroom amenities at Ray Owen Reserve are a much-needed improvement for the area and welcomed by the WAFC. Projects such as this a crucially important to ensure the ongoing growth and sustainability of Kalamunda Districts Football Club, Mazenod Junior Football Club, and all other sporting groups who use this facility. We look forward to continuing to work with the City of Kalamunda to provide further upgrades to facilities within the area.”

The new changerooms, which also include a Universal Accessible Toilet (UAT), are designed to meet the needs of the City’s growing sporting community. These improvements will support increased participation in local sports and help clubs in the area continue to thrive.

For more information, visit www.kalamunda.wa.gov.au or contact the City of Kalamunda on 9257 9999 or email enquiries@kalamunda.wa.gov.au.