Work begins on Force's new HQ
Work has started on the Western Force's new $10 million headquarters with the ceremonial turning of the first sod by Sport and Recreation Minister Terry Waldron.
The Rugby Centre replaces the facilities being used by RugbyWA - the Force's umbrella body - at Perry Lakes, which will be demolished for residential development.
The new site will have indoor training facilities, including a gymnasium, and administration offices with an adjacent outdoor training area.
It is the final stage of a three-pronged sports development in the Mount Claremont sporting precinct.
The new WA Athletics Stadium and WA Basketball Centre are already built.
"Combined with the already-operational WA Athletics Stadium and WA Basketball Centre, the rugby facility is another piece in the state government's delivery of a world- standard sports park to replace Perry Lakes' outdated facilities," Mr Waldron said.
"I can't wait to see the facility completed and making a difference to the sport of rugby in our State, and to the lives of West Australians."
Rugby WA chairman Geoff Stooke said: "We're delighted to have the project come to fruition and thank the state government and in particular the Department of Sport and Recreation for its assistance.
"The planning has been thorough and precise and the building of this world-class facility is another significant milestone in rugby's proud history in Western Australia.
"It will provide the administrative and training headquarters to properly support both our professional team, the Emirates Western Force, and our community rugby base."
The work is expected to be completed in12 months' time.
