History matters, play your part in helping to refurbish the University of Adelaide Grandstand

Established in 1910 and nestled in the heart of Adelaide, the University of Adelaide (UoA) Grandstand at Park 12 stands as one of Australia's oldest sporting landmarks. With a rich history that has been documented over the past 113 years, it has seen a fair share of memory making moments - it even welcomed the Royals back in the 1950s. This heritage-listed gem, home to sporting clubs like the Adelaide University Football Club (AUFC) and Adelaide University Cricket Club (AUCC), is currently undergoing a much-needed refurbishment - and it needs your support.

Preparing for future generations of participants, the renovation of the University Oval Grandstand is set to include major improvements to the changerooms and Long Room.

With an increased focus on women’s sport, growth in participation and excellence in performance levels, the changerooms for players and umpires are to be upgraded to meet the current gender inclusive design standards. In addition, it has also been resolved to improve the ‘Long Room’ to best serve club members and supporters.

When further funding is secured, the final stages of the masterplan for Park 12 may proceed and this will include a larger secondary clubrooms, change rooms and storage facilities located at the south-east end of University Oval.

Determined to raise the funds needed, the AU Cricket Club (AUCC) is aiming to secure $100,000 to assist with the refurbishment expenses. They are currently reaching out to the wider community, extending an invitation to contribute towards achieving this goal.

The grandstand was officially opened on July 11, 1910, by the then Governor, Sir Day Hort Bosanquet and as one of Australia's oldest surviving sporting landmarks, its historical importance extends far beyond bricks and mortar. It has been a cherished home for the AUCC and AUFC for well over a century and holds a prominent place in the club's history. The AUFC proudly took its official form in 1906, while the AUCC's enduring legacy was officially established in 1907. These historic foundations have shaped the essence of both clubs and continue to resonate in their journey today.

The iconic grandstand was erected at a cost of £1300, and its construction was made possible through the contributions of thirteen benefactors, each providing £100. Their names were proudly displayed on a commemorative plaque located at the rear of the grandstand, which is still there today.

Reflecting on this remarkable feat, former AUCC A Grade representative and triple Bradman medallist, Robert O’Shannassy, highlighted the captivating story behind the pavilion’s funding. Among the notable donors, the most fascinating was Antarctic explorer Ernest Shackleton. Funnily enough, Shackleton, having returned from one of his expeditions, was just passing through Adelaide at the time. Despite having no direct association with the cricket club, his contribution stands as a testament to the grandstand's significance.

Robert emphasised that the University Oval and its pavilion have played witness to numerous exceptional, historical moments since the UoA Grandstand's inauguration in 1910.  
“Apart from the opening ceremony in 1910, probably the most significant occasion in the Pavilion’s history was the Royal Visit to Adelaide in March of 1954,” Robert explained.  
“Over 25,000 ex-service men and women were present to parade before the recently crowned Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip at University Oval.”

Like several other iconic structures, this grandstand has undergone its fair share of renovations throughout its history. The first major alteration took place in 1928 when the University's dressing rooms received a significant upgrade when seven hot showers were installed. In 1939, the grandstand saw another extension, further enhancing its facilities. In the 1960s, the ground floor at the rear of the stand welcomed additional toilets and amenities, while the change rooms underwent a remodelling.

However, the most significant transformation occurred in 2012, a revamp that contributes to the grandstand's present-day appearance. This transformative project was spearheaded by Peter Maddern, a life member of both the AUFC and AUCC. Peter's journey with these clubs began when he joined the AUCC during the 1978/79 season. Over the years, he wore multiple hats – from being a club secretary to making a triumphant return to the lower grades in the late 1980s. Joining the AUFC in 1980, Peter played for an impressive 11 years, after which he transitioned into roles of leadership. He became a coach, a chairperson, and, served as president from 1996 to 2012.

Peter Maddern's dedication and efforts have left a lasting mark on the grandstand's transformation and the clubs it serves. The turning point on receiving funding, was when Vice-Chancellor of UoA at the time, James McWha, agreed to visit the grandstand. Seeing the view from the long room changed his mind, ensuring that the necessary funding for the work that was needed would be provided. The initial $500,000 estimate ballooned to around $1.2 million due to extensive renovations. The works included the Long Room, plumbing, chairs, storage, tiling, bricks, and a new scoreboard.

Now, as we look towards the future and further much-needed upgrades, we recognise that this initiative reaches beyond financial achievements; it serves as a testament to the importance of fostering an inclusive sports environment for future generations of athletes. It also stands as a tribute to the grandstand's legacy and the importance of preserving this iconic, Adelaide sporting facility for years to come.

To date, the club has raised approximately $50,000, and with a revised target of $100,000, there's still much work ahead. The club extends its gratitude to those who have already made contributions and invites others to contribute as they can, recognising that every contribution, regardless of its size, plays a significant role in achieving their goals.

Donors who contribute $250 or more will have the unique opportunity to see their names etched onto a commemorative board, a tangible testament to their commitment. Members and supporters who generously donate $1,000 or more will receive a personal contact from the club to discuss special recognition plans for their support.

With the fundraising journey extending until the end of November, there's no better time to become part of this transformative effort.

History matters. If you'd like to be part of this journey, you can make a contribution here.