The changerooms at Upper Hillcrest Reserve in Bayswater have been transformed, featuring brand new gender inclusive and accessible facilities that provide modern amenities for players and local clubs.
The upgrade converts two original changerooms into four refurbished rooms. The new changerooms are each equipped with private shower partitions, individual changing spaces, bench seating, LED sensor lighting, regular seated toilets and ambulant toilets. Accessibility improvements feature wheelchair ramps, grab rails and two ACROD parking bays, scheduled for completion by March 2025.
These improvements replace infrastructure designed primarily for male teams, ensuring a more inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone.
Mayor Filomena Piffaretti described the upgrades as a major benefit for the clubs that use the reserve and for the wider community.
“The new changerooms design supports all players and encourages greater participation in local sports, particularly the growing women’s football team at the Bayswater Football Club,” she said.
“Women’s football is growing rapidly and these changerooms provide the amenities needed to support that growth. They will also ensure players of all genders and abilities can participate with dignity and comfort.
“Upper Hillcrest Reserve is home to a number of local clubs and modern facilities like this will help attract and retain members.”
The $388,279 project was funded with $120,833 from the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries, $50,000 from the Western Australian Football Commission, and $217,446 from the City.
This project reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to improving local sporting infrastructure and promoting an active, inclusive community.
Pictured L-R: Western Australia Football Commission Manager Facilities and Government Relations Steven Rose, Councillor Assunta Meleca, player Leona Russell from the Bayswater Football Club, Councillor Josh Eveson, and Bayswater Football Club Vice President Danielle Santoro.