We call on Darebin City Council to urgently prioritise the upgrade and redevelopment of Mayer Park’s playing surfaces.
Darebin United SC has more than 300 players across 20+ teams, with participation tripling in the past six years. Yet during this period, there has been no infrastructure investment in our home ground.
In 2024 alone, the club lost 23 training sessions due to unsafe and waterlogged conditions. The current surface is uneven, inconsistent, and at times dangerous — particularly for junior and female players.

Mayer Park services:

Over 300 registered players
130+ children under 12 and over 70 females

40% female representaion on committtee

Darebin’s first and only 2-Star Club Changer accredited clubs

7 female coaches and growing female participation.

As a fully independent community club based in Thornbury, we provide affordable, inclusive football pathways without private academy backing.
We are not asking for luxury — we are asking for safe, sustainable playing surfaces that reflect the growth and importance of community sport in Darebin.

We respectfully request:
Immediate prioritisation of pitch redevelopment funding
A clear timeline for upgrade works
Short-term improvements to surface drainage and safety.

Our players deserve better.