As the perimeter fence project nears completion, we are proud to highlight the Club’s ongoing investment in the Unley Oval precinct. Since 2014, the Club has contributed close to $3,000,000 in leasehold improvements, that recently includes training shelters, behind-goal netting, electronic scoreboard, and the new perimeter fence (currently being installed) enhancing facilities for our Club, community groups, and other users of the Oval.
Equally significant is the contribution of our volunteer group, The Baggies, who have dedicated an estimated 12,000 hours to maintenance and improvement works. Their efforts continue to play a vital role in presenting Unley Oval as a high-quality regional facility.
The successful delivery of Stage I & II of the Grandstand redevelopment was made possible through government and AFL funding, sourced by the Club, and tied to female football facility upgrades reflecting our strong commitment to inclusivity and the growth of the game.
Importantly, the SANFL has confirmed that no other club has invested $3,000,000 of its own funds into leasehold facilities an achievement that speaks to our long-term commitment to Unley Oval.
Beyond football, Jack’s on Unley continues to give back locally, providing monthly $500 grants to community groups within the City of Unley, contributing over $17,000 to date.
It is important to address recent claims made by a minority group of residents suggesting the Club is seeking to take control of Unley Oval. These assertions are both absurd and baseless. The Club operates strictly within its lease agreement, which includes 500 hours of oval usage annually for training, significantly less than football clubs within the City of Unley and surrounding councils.
Similarly, claims circulated via the “Friends of Unley” Facebook group regarding the removal of a mature tree to accommodate the perimeter fence are incorrect. No tree has been, or will be, removed as part of this project. The project team have worked closely with qualified arborists to ensure the protection of existing trees, including careful consideration of root systems to avoid any damage.
While a small minority group may continue to question the Club’s intent, the facts remain clear. Our use of Unley Oval is approximately 6% annually (14% during daylight hours), yet our financial and social contribution to the local community is substantial.
As the saying goes, “Never take criticism from someone you wouldn’t take advice from.”
In addition to our operational commitments, the Club pays rent across other sites, including 39 Oxford Terrace and Jack’s on Unley, along with applicable commercial Council rates. Further to this, the Club has over 2,000 members and partners who reside in the City of Unley, all ratepayers including our management, players and officials. This represents a significant and direct contribution to the local community and does not include the amount of supporters within the area.
The economic impact we generate, welcoming over 40,000 attendees across match days each season, delivers meaningful benefit to local businesses within the City of Unley.
We have called Unley Oval home longer than any living resident and remain deeply committed to supporting and strengthening our local community.
We are Unley born and bred.
Thank you for your continued support.
