Ernest Johnson Reserve

The project commenced in 2011 as an outcome of The City of South Perth Future Directions and Needs Study for Sporting and Recreational Clubs developed in 2006. 

The City’s Strategic Community Plan and Corporate Business Plan both identified the development and implementation of a Master Plan for Ernest Johnson Reserve as a key initiative.

All built facilities located on the reserve were aged, and some no longer served the purpose for current community uses. As the buildings had aged, they each required major upgrades such as re-wiring, new roofing, upgraded toilets to meet disability needs, ventilation and compliance with standards and regulations. In addition, each facility required ongoing annual maintenance such as utility costs, electricity, water and sewerage.  

Rather than spend lots of resources (time, money, energy) on maintaining and upgrading each of the six individual buildings every year, it was more efficient to construct two buildings that can accommodate almost all of the users.

The Master Plan proposed three stages:  

Stage one

The construction of the new buildings, car park and associated infrastructure.

Stage two

Demolition of existing buildings

• New irrigation for the reserve
• Relocation of cricket practice wickets
• Little athletics throwing circles and long jump pit
• New synthetic cricket pitches
• Relocation of existing senior turf cricket wicket
• New playground and social area

Stage Three

• Refurbishment of the Como Bowling Club 
• Potential relocation of the Como Croquet Club to the Bowling Club site
• Installation of paths and fitness stations.

Stage one works commenced on site in February 2017.

Stage two works commenced in January 2018 and were finished in October 2018. 

The majority of current user groups are local resident not for profit sporting clubs, community groups, local residents and the wider community. This project has enhanced the facilities for:

• 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

The City’s Long Term Strategic Financial Plan 2013-2023 allocated $10.5 million to Stages one and two of this project. The master plan was reviewed, in line with the implementation of each stage, its priorities and the annual budgeting process.

PACT Construction Pty Ltd was been awarded the contract by the City for Stage one following a public tender process.