As parents and caregivers of students at St Patrick’s Primary School, and as parishioners, we respectfully submit this petition to Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS), the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne (CAM) and St Patrick’s Parish. 

For almost two years, the school’s tennis courts and surrounding open space have remained closed due to safety concerns. While we understand the need to ensure safe conditions for all students, staff and parishioners, the prolonged lack of access has significantly reduced the available play space for more than 270 children and the broader parish.

Over the years, the Parents and Friends Association of St Patricks have worked tirelessly and proactively to raise funds that not only benefit the school, but also the parish and community, we remain committed to continue to do this.

However, we are concerned about what appears to be a lack of transparency and clear communication in respect of the barriers to re-opening the tennis court for the use of the school, its students and parishioners.

Our Request: 

With respect and a spirit of partnership, we ask for a meeting with the key stake holders including MACS, CAM and St Patrick’s Parish at which we are provided;

1. A clear update on the current status of decision-making regarding the tennis courts and open space. 
2. Clarification of any remaining barriers preventing progress.  Including an update on how the parents and caregivers can support MACS, the Archdiocese and the Parish practically and financially to reopen the courts
3. A committed timeline for restoring safe access for students during school hours, in alignment with the RULBA.

We are firmly of the belief that if we work together, we can achieve an outcome that benefits everyone involved but most importantly the students and parishioners.

Why We Are Signing: 

• The tennis courts have historically been a vital part of our children’s school experience—supporting physical activity, social development, and general wellbeing.
• They represent the largest area of open play space in the schoolyard.
• The current schoolyard does not provide sufficient space for active play, leading to reduced opportunities for sport, movement, and social games during school hours.
• Keeping the space closed prevents parishioners and potential the broader community from utilising this important space.
• The Parents & Friends community has raised funds to address the identified safety concerns (including the removal of the light towers) and remain committed to continuing to assist in raising any additional funds that may be needed to ensure their safe use, and maintenance going forward.
• We have remained patient as we await an outcome but it has come to the point where the lack of communication and clarity is causing angst amongst the children and parent group.
• Clear and open dialogue with an action plan will assist all parties in moving forward.
• Importantly, access to the tennis courts during school hours has already been agreed to under the Right to Use Land and Building Agreement (RULBA) between St Patrick’s Parish and Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS).
• We believe that honoring this agreement and establishing a clear path forward is in the best interests of the children, the school, and the parish community.