Demolition of the Prindiville Stand at the iconic WACA Ground is now complete, making way for an all-abilities playground as part of the WACA Ground Improvement Project.
The demolition took 15 weeks to complete and will transform the venue into an accessible and inclusive community hub that will also include a café, new pavilion, change rooms and offices for WA Cricket.
Local contractor Brajkovich Demolition is committed to recycling up to 95 per cent of the stand’s material through crushing facilities and its large salvage yard in the Swan Valley.
WA Cricket has also salvaged museum artefacts, memorabilia and re-usable catering equipment from the decommissioned stand.
The Prindiville Stand was officially opened in November 1984 as the initial stage of the Ground’s first major redevelopment to commemorate the Centenary of the WACA Ground.
Named after Bernie Prindiville, past President of the Western Australian Cricket Association, the stand became home to WA Cricket’s administration offices.
Prindiville was a dedicated servant of cricket in WA, who led the fundraising initiatives for the first Test match in Perth in December 1970 and was a key mover in raising $19 million towards the redevelopment of the Ground.
The new administration building will be named after Prindiville, preserving an important part of WA cricketing history.
The WACA Ground Improvement Project is anticipated to create 120 jobs in the construction phase and 250 ongoing jobs when operational.
The project is jointly funded by the Australian Government, Western Australian Government, Western Australian Cricket Association and Cricket Australia. It is a key part of the Perth City Deal, a joint agreement between the three levels of government.
As stated by Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Hon. Catherine King MP:
“The WACA is an iconic Western Australian sporting ground, and the Albanese Government is looking forward to supporting its redevelopment through the Perth City Deal.
“The project will support local jobs, while encouraging people back into the CBD.”
As stated by Western Australian Minister for Transport, Planning and Ports, the Hon Rita Saffioti MLA:
“The WACA is a special place for many Western Australians – I spent many years there as a kid, cheering on my favourite players.
“The WACA Ground Improvement Project is well underway and will create a vibrant new hub in East Perth with the all-abilities playground to be enjoyed by families of all ages.”
As stated by Western Australian Minister for Sport and Recreation, the Hon David Templeman MLA:
“The demolition of the Prindiville Stand is a significant milestone for the WACA Ground Improvement Project and the community more broadly.
“The addition of the all-abilities playground, café, museum and upgraded facilities will enhance the visitor experience and attract more spectators and tourists through its gates.
“I commend WA Cricket for its excellent work in transforming this iconic venue and contributing to the liveability and vibrancy of the eastern end of the city.”
As stated by Perth Lord Mayor, Basil Zempilas:
“The addition of an all-abilities playground as part of the new look WACA will be much welcomed by the East Perth residents and visitors to Perth.
“This project is a key part of the Perth City Deal, a game changer for our capital city.”
As stated by Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister, the Hon Patrick Gorman MP:
“The WACA Ground is at the heart of the East Perth community and serves as an important place to recognise the history of cricket in our State as well as the future potential of the area.
“The installation of an all-abilities playground as part of the project will ensure families from all over Perth can enjoy our city.”
As stated by WA Cricket CEO, Christina Matthews:
“Too often, sporting facilities are designed with a focus purely on high performance rather than community and the demolition of the Prindiville Stand is a major step towards this ground becoming a place every member of our community, no matter their ability and age, can enjoy and create long-lasting memories.
“Features like the all-abilities playground, café and pavilion will help drive year-round use and create a WACA Ground that’s accessible to all.
“We want to thank the State and Federal governments and the City of Perth for their contribution and hard work getting this finalised.”
