AFTER a multi-million dollar refurbishment at ratepayers’ expense, the community hub at St Kilda FC’s former Seaford training base has opened.
The Healthy Futures Hub now hosts local sporting clubs, a community centre, a gym and pool, physios, dentists, occupational therapists, personal trainers, and NDIS providers.
After moving to Seaford amid much fanfare in 2010, St Kilda FC moved its training back to Moorabbin just eight years later. It signed a lease at the Seaford site valid until 2059, which has since been renegotiated. The club remains the head tenant of the site.
The project was costed at $5.46 million in an update provided in mid-2022, which is $2.23 million over its original budget. Since then the contracted builder collapsed, and subcontractors were engaged to finish the project. Council did not confirm the final cost to The Times, with minor works still yet to be completed.
Frankston mayor Nathan Conroy said the reopened facility “brings together 12 organisations offering a wide range of services related to learning, wellbeing and physical health that are accessible to everyone, regardless of age or ability.”
“Integrated health services play a critical role in promoting the health and wellbeing of communities. The Healthy Futures Hub is not only a significant step forward for the health and wellbeing of our community, but it also has the potential to drive economic growth in the region,” he said. “By creating a one-stop-shop for a variety of health needs, we’re making it easier for people to access the services they need to live healthy and active lives.”
St Kilda FC was widely criticised for the way it handled its Seaford move. St Kilda FC CEO Simon Lethlean said the club is “thrilled to be part of such a meaningful project that will positively impact the health and wellbeing of the community.”
“The Healthy Futures Hub is an exciting initiative that aligns with our commitment to supporting the local community and promoting a healthy lifestyle. We look forward to the positive impact it will have on the lives of those who use it,” he said.
The initial cost of the Seaford facility was split between Frankston Council, the state government, the AFL, and St Kilda FC more than a decade ago. Council contributed $3.8 million and the state government put in $3.45 million.
St Kilda’s initial 50-year lease was handed out with a peppercorn rent. The terms of St Kilda’s new lease were publicly exhibited in 2021 – a seven year lease was agreed to with the Saints paying $10,000 in the first year up to $20,000 year four and onwards. A provision was included for two further seven year periods if the terms of the lease are not breached, however future terms may be subject to renegotiation (“New lease for Saints at Seaford”, The Times 11/10/21).
The Healthy Futures Hub is at 151 East Road in Seaford.