Ernest Johnson Reserve - stage two update

Local groups and sporting clubs have begun moving into their new state of the art community facilities on Ernest Johnson (EJ) Reserve in South Perth. The first stage of the $10.5 million project was completed in January 2018, providing a new pavilion and hall.

EJ Reserve and its associated buildings are being redeveloped to better accommodate the needs of relevant sports clubs, community groups, the local community and the City, and produce a contemporary, functional and sustainable multi-purpose facility.

Stage two
Stage two of the redevelopment has now commenced, it will include demolition of the old buildings – the old pavilion and hall, old toilet block, cricket nets and Rotary Hall. Demolition work is scheduled to occur between 9-22 February.

Stage two will also include works on the oval and construction of sports facilities, playgrounds and social areas. To ensure public safety during this phase of the redevelopment, the lower oval has been partially fenced off. All other areas of EJ Reserve are accessible to the public.

New turf and irrigation is scheduled for completion by March, with sporting clubs expected to be able to use the new grounds by May.

Remaining works to the oval including construction of a new playground and exercise equipment, landscaping, lighting and pathways is scheduled to occur between April and July. 

The project will provide benefits to mostly existing users of the reserve, including:

• South Perth Junior Football Club
• South Perth Cricket Club (Suburban Turf)
• West Australian Football Commission Umpires (AFL & WAFL)
• South Perth Branch of the Returned & Services League (currently located in Angelo Street, South Perth)
• South Perth Playgroup
• Girl Guides South Perth
• Rotary Club of South Perth Burswood
• South Perth Little Athletics
• South Perth Junior Cricket Club
• Local residents and passive users of the reserve.

EJ Reserve is located in South Perth, bounded by South Terrace, Sandgate Street, and Hensman Street.

Dog exercise areas
People wishing to exercise their dogs on EJ Reserve can do so on the non-fenced areas of the reserve which are also designated ‘off-leash’ dog exercise zones. For further details of other ‘on leash’ and ‘off leash’ dog exercise areas located within the City, please refer to the Residents section of the City’s website.