Rugby ARKS up at John Dunn

by Danielle McComasky

March 31, 2008

ARMADALE Roleystone Kelmscott Rugby Club will this weekend kick off for the first time at its very own home ground.

ARKS president Steve Davey, in his first season in the role, said that the club wanted its own identity.

“We didn’t have our own home ground and we want to take pride in our club,” Mr Davey said.

The club plays at John Dunn Oval, situated on Third Avenue, Kelmscott – near the Senior High School. ARKS acquired management of the adjacent John Dunn Pavilion after Armadale council approved their proposal recently.

The council had had full control of the oval since 2006, after the Kelmscott Football and Sportsmen’s Club gave up its lease.

The new arrangement hands ARKS most of the financial responsibility for, and upkeep of, John Dunn for a trial period of two years.

The club wishes to use John Dunn as a base for its home games over the winter rugger season, and a venue for social events.

The ground’s lighting is a bonus, allowing the club in the next few weeks to host the state trials.

Armadale council was at first concerned the club might not be able to meet obligations and uphold the condition of the premises. This had happened before, with clubs not being able to generate enough revenue, and buildings and pavilions left in a poor condition.

However, Mr Davy said ARKS could see through their proposal, with the support of local businesses.

“The club has many sponsorship and we are financially viable to see this lease out,” he confirmed.