The renovated Manly Warringah Football Club was officially opened on Saturday by Federal Member for Mackellar, Mr Jason Falinski MP, the State Member for Wakehurst The Hon Brad Hazzard MP and MWFA/Manly United Life Member Keith Pester.
The trio unveiled a commemorative plaque overlooking Cromer Park at a function attended by 100 guests from the local Manly Warringah and Mosman football community to officially open the Northern Beaches’ “Home of Football”.
“The Manly Warringah Football Club upgrade confirms Cromer Park as the best grassroots football facility in New South Wales,” said MWFA and Manly United CEO David Mason. “A wonderful facility for the entire Northern Beaches Football community.
“This redevelopment was a dream for 20 years, on again and off again in various guises for the last decade and full steam ahead for the last 2 years. Today, it has come to life!”
The $2.1million development was funded by the Federal Government, Manly Warringah Football Association, Manly United Football Club, the Manly Warringah District Soccer Football Club, the NSW Government, local football clubs and individuals.
All contributors are recognised on a commemorative plaque that sits at the entrance to the building, overlooking Cromer Park No. 1 field, which is currently undergoing a replacement of the all-weather surface thanks to Northern Beaches Council.
“There have been so many people that have worked hard with blood sweat and tears and also investment to make it happen but today is a victory for unity. An illustration of what can be achieved when everyone works together,” Mason said.
“We have had wonderful support from the Federal Government and NSW Government for this building as well as $1.6 million in funding, donations and investments from the football community. Throw in the continued investment in the playing fields by Northern Beaches Council and this has truly been a joint effort.”
The re-opening was also an opportunity to permanently recognise the work that Keith Pester has put into football on the Northern Beaches, the Manly Warringah Football Club and the Cromer Park precinct.
“Grassroots football is built on volunteers who sacrifice time and effort to benefit others and football has been blessed to have Keith Pester and we are thrilled to be able to recognise him on this day,” Mason said.
“We have a large number of volunteers who have sacrificed their time for decades but Keith stands above all in what he has done for every level of the game. He is the Life Member of Wakehurst Football Club (grassroots club), the MWFA (Association) and Manly United (NPL Club) and his legacy will now live on for years to come.”
