Dear Members,
It was nice to get that winning feeling back last weekend after what has been a difficult start to the season for us. We’ve been very competitive for much of the first eight rounds but just haven’t been able to finish the job and that has been frustrating for everyone, not least the coaching group and players.
As a Board we have enormous faith in our football leadership group of Tim Livingstone, Blair Hartley and Damien Hardwick. Beyond that we have a talented playing group that is always committed to improvement. Collectively they have worked through difficult times before, staying connected and maintaining a positive environment that has been the cornerstone of past success.
Our extended injury list in the early part of the season has provided invaluable experience for our younger players. It has been exciting to watch the emergence of some of our next generation. Difficult periods are where growth comes from, and it will strengthen us in the long term.
Thanks to all our 2023 members. As of today, we have 96,217 members. Your loyalty and commitment keep this Club strong. If you haven’t joined as a member yet and have the capacity, please do. Thank you also to those that have been in the stands this season – the Tiger Army gives the players an enormous lift.
Following my recent column there were some questions from members and supporters relating to the Club’s involvement in the gaming industry. As members are aware, a decision regarding our on-going involvement in the gaming industry has been under consideration for some time.
The Club manages one gaming venue – the Wantirna Club – and we have five years to run on our current lease. The Board is conscious of the asset value and on behalf of members, do not want to compromise our hard-earned financial stability, particularly so given the upcoming infrastructure investment. To this end, we will continue to review the best course of action to protect our position.
We are committed to not expanding our gaming involvement, but rather continue to look to other means to meet the Club’s strategic objective of diversifying revenue streams. To this end, our Aligned Leisure business, which manages aquatic, health and fitness facilities, continues to grow and can be increasingly considered in the context of this decision.
We will keep members up-to-date as we continue to work through this issue.
The Club continues to work on the planned redevelopment of Punt Road Oval. I can confirm that Multiplex has been appointed as our preferred builder. We are currently working through a value-management process to ensure the finished product is completed as cost-effectively as possible. This will also provide us with a clearer picture of commencement dates.
A number of key stakeholders have made substantial contributions to our fundraising program which is now well underway. These contributions are critical to enable us to finance the project. I want to thank those people who have gotten behind the Club's vision for Punt Road Oval. We are enormously grateful for your support.
I’ve also had some correspondence asking if the redevelopment will incorporate a museum. The solution that has been developed will see the Club’s historical memorabilia showcased on rotation throughout the new facility. This will allow us to make maximum use of the space available while also broadening the audience that can access it.
While on the subject of our Club history, I wanted to make mention of the 1973 Premiership side. This year marks the 50th anniversary of that famous victory and it was wonderful to have 17 members of that team in attendance on Saturday. We owe those who have been before us a debt of gratitude and it was wonderful to reflect on such a significant period for the Club.
It was also humbling to hear how much the Club still means to all of them and how much joy they took from our recent success. To hear Ian Stewart say “how special it felt just to be a fan of this great Club” was really powerful.
Should members have any questions they would like addressed in my next column, please email president@richmondfc.com.au
I look forward to seeing you at the football.
John O’Rourke
President
Richmond Football Club
