Perth Voice Interactive

SPORTS clubs under threat of closure or amalgamation by Bayswater city council have been granted a reprieve.

Spiralling maintenance costs on old buildings and plummeting membership have put pressure on clubs to merge and become more self-sufficient.

Five Bayswater clubs fought for their survival on Tuesday night, presenting deputations to the council to show they were financially viable. Under the spotlight were Bayswater Bowling Club, Bedford Bowling Club, Maylands Sports Club, Bayswater Tennis Club, Morley/Noranda Sport and Recreation Club and Maylands Tennis Club.

Bayswater Tennis Club was a no-show. Maylands Tennis Club received the most scrutiny with staff recommending the number of courts be slashed to save money. It has 17 courts but only 60 members, and costs $105,000 in maintenance every year.

Last week mayor Terry Kenyon told the Voice mergers would not be discussed at the meeting, but they were firmly on the agenda with staff recommending a plan be developed to consider “rationalising” (closing) or amalgamating clubs. In the end, the council applauded the efforts of the clubs over the past two years to become more financially viable and sustainable.

“I’m glad clubs have got off their backside and taken action,” barked Cr Graham Pittaway.

“This council is not a cash-cow—we’re not here just to dole out money.”

Cr Kenyon congratulated the clubs on turning their fortunes around—none are in debt to the council—but said he was disappointed with some of the clubs’ “us and them” attitude.

“There will be amalgamations in the future—it is a fact of life.”

Councillors voted to drop the preparation of a report on amalgamations and closures, but will ask clubs to present their finances to the council in person each year. A report on the cost-benefit of reducing tennis courts at Maylands will be presented to council at this year’s budget.