By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Despite wide outcry, a council ban on Springvale Districts Football Club’s use of a shipping container as a matchday corporate box looked set to extend beyond the season’s opening home game.
The initiative at Springvale Reserve, Newcomen Road had proved a successful revenue-raiser throughout the 2018 season, according to the club.
Since then, and after long negotiations in the pre-season, the council deemed the use of the ‘permanent structure’ as illegal without a permit.
On Facebook, the “frustrated and disappointed” club described the process – and outcome – as “another ridiculous maze of red tape”.
“After a long and time-consuming process throughout the pre-season we were finally informed that we would not be permitted to have our corporate box.
“This is extremely disappointing as this was an original proactive idea that not only provided financial benefits to our club but also promoted attendance at local football which in our tough local landscape is desperately needed.”
The council is now meeting the club for further discussions including “alternative options” on Monday 8 April. This meant the issue was unresolved ahead of the near-50-year-old club’s opening home clash against Caulfield Bears on 6 April.
Mayor Roz Blades said on 4 April that she was hoping to “sort it out” and “do the best” for the club.
“We had a meeting on Monday to discuss a way forward because it’s a very valued club in Greater Dandenong.
“It can’t be resolved without a permit. There will need to be appropriate permits.”
Springvale Districts president Sean Francis said the club had not sought a permit last year, nor did the council raise concerns during last season.
“We brought it in and set it there. Nothing negative was said about it.
“Now we’re still going through the process with the council. We’re working our way through it.”
Springvale Districts secretary Joe Mahony stated on Facebook that the saga could cost the club “thousands of dollars” and have far-reaching consequences.
“This is just one example of the difficulties facing sporting clubs in an area with dwindling sport participation rates.
“Council’s explanation – ‘Not in the interests of the local community’. RUBBISH. This was a popular initiative of a well-loved local club.”
