WMG announces major project partners for Australia’s first Sports & Recreation-driven city

Western Melbourne Group (WMG) has unveiled an impressive cohort of project partners for the $2 billion development and delivery of Australia’s first sports and recreation-focused suburb in Melbourne’s West, scheduled for phased completion over the coming 10 years.

The mixed-use suburb will be developed as a public-private partnership with Wyndham City Council with major project partners including: sports partner Western United FC; development partner YourLand Developments and technology partner Johnson Controls.

The development will incorporate four distinct precincts including: the High Performance Sports Precinct; the Stadium Precinct; the Residential Precinct; and the Commercial & Mixed-Use Precinct.

Incorporated into the precincts will be: a 15,000-capacity, purpose-built, multi-sports stadium; 3 FIFA Pro outdoor playing surfaces; a 5,000-capacity second stadium; 900+ residential dwellings; and recreation-focused wetlands.

Commenting on the appointment of project partners, WMG and Western United Executive Chairman, Jason Sourasis, said:

We’re absolutely delighted to work alongside some of the leading Australian and international property partners for this groundbreaking project, which will deliver both economic and social benefits to Melbourne’s West and, more broadly, the state of Victoria.

YourLand Developments’ experience in creating sustainable communities, where people aspire to live and work, aligns perfectly to the values of our region and was therefore a natural partner. YourLand has a proud legacy in Melbourne’s west, delivering over 2,500 lots as well as town centres, parks, open spaces and wetlands, in addition to commercial assets.

Johnson Controls is one of the world’s best technology partners with demonstrable expertise in smart, healthy and sustainable development, including international sports and entertainment projects.

At the core of the development is Australia’s first privately-owned sports stadium and the future new home of A-Leagues club Western United FC, which will begin playing home matches at its training ground in 2024.

Sourasis said:

This is truly the most exciting project in Melbourne’s sporting landscape and will create only the second A-League broadcast compliant, rectangular stadium in the State. As one of the newest football teams in the Australian domestic league, creating a welcoming and safe space for our fans is our top priority, and this project will set our club up for the long-term.

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Ali Badreddine, Vice President, Project Delivery & Sustainable Infrastructure, Asia Pacific, Johnson Controls, said:

At Johnson Controls, we have a legacy of nearly 140 years of innovation, technology and energy efficiency. We are proud to be a technology leader with deep experience in the sports and entertainment sector, providing enhanced safety, improved sustainability and more connected experiences for fans and athletes. We look forward to working with Western Melbourne Group and other valued partners to deliver sustainable development through our integrated solutions.

Dean Gold, Chief Operating Officer, YourLand Developments said:

YourLand Developments has a proud history of successful development in the western suburbs of Melbourne, delivering places and communities with real substance and integrity that are designed to leave a positive and enduring legacy. YourLand’s team of highly skilled professionals have the experience and passion to take this project from vision to reality.

Robert Kissane, Chief Financial Officer, YourLand Developments said:

YourLand Developments is thrilled to join capable partners with aligned values and objectives, Western Melbourne Group, Johnson Controls and Western United FC, to deliver this transformative project for Melbourne’s West.

The project will be phased over the coming years, and delivery of Australia’s first health and wellness focused city will open in stages over the next decade.

Source & imagery, courtesy: Western United FC

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