Megan Walker
NSW Architect Registration No. 7478
Bob Prenter Reserve
In the heart of Macquarie Fields, Southwest Sydney, Bob Prenter Reserve is undergoing a remarkable transformation. Delivered in partnership with Arenco and Campbelltown City Council, this project aims to elevate the reserve into a premier, regional-level sports facility—a celebration of the district’s active sporting scene and a new benchmark for community infrastructure.
The Bob Prenter Reserve Upgrade is more than just cosmetic; it’s a comprehensive redevelopment designed to meet the diverse needs of the community. With a budget of $7.8 million, funded by the NSW Government’s Multisport Community Facility Fund and Campbelltown City Council, the project promises to deliver a state-of-the-art facility that caters to AFL NSW, local AFL club Southwest Blues, the Gaelic Football Association, Little Athletics, and other sports.
DesignInc provided integrated architecture, interior design and landscape architecture services for this project.
Grassroots at a Professional Level
The goal for Bob Prenter Reserve is to create a facility that not only meets the AFL Preferred Community Facility Guidelines 2024 for regional level facilities but also enhances the playing, umpiring and spectating experience to encourage all-gender sporting engagement. The design balances functionality with natural, social, and economic influences, creating a space that positively impacts the environment and the wellbeing of the community.
The upgraded facility will feature three key spaces:
- The Grandstand: The space beneath the existing public spectator grandstand is utilised for public amenities, a gym, and separated umpire facilities.
- Clubhouse: A first floor clubroom with lift access, covered outdoor spectator viewing deck, venue management office, timekeeper/scorers’ box, kitchen and bar, storeroom, and accessible amenities.
- Players Amenities: Ground floor players’ changerooms with direct access to the field, storeroom, canteen, and large storage rooms for on-field equipment.
The facility is designed to reflect the values and traditions of community sport, creating a familiar, comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. The design concept includes a site-wide masterplan, a consistent palette of materials, and building forms that relate to each other, ensuring a cohesive and aesthetic outcome. A future grandstand extension and bridge link between the two buildings has also been designed, enabling Council to easily implement these improvements in the future.
The landscape design, developed by DesignInc, includes a welcoming entry forecourt in the centre of the facility with seating, shade trees, low-level planting, and covered BBQ facilities for club use. This area is designed to funnel visitors from the street and carpark towards the field, also providing a gathering space with direct access to public amenities, canteen and the grandstand.
Co-Designing a Community Hub
A collaborative community co-design process has underpinned the project, incorporating input from various stakeholders including Campbelltown City Council, Arenco (the Design & Construct Contractor), the local AFL club, and representatives from AFL NSW/ACT.
The Bob Prenter Reserve Upgrade is set to become a vibrant hub for community sports, fostering a sense of pride and belonging among local residents. With its inclusive design, enhanced amenities, and focus on sustainability, the facility will serve as a beacon of excellence for regional AFL sports infrastructure.
Objectives and Aspirations
At the core of this project are several key objectives:
- Setting a New Standard: The facility aims to be a model for regional AFL sports venues, designed for functionality at all levels of performance.
- Supporting Community Growth: New facilities for multiple codes allow the region’s diverse sporting communities to thrive.
- Inclusivity and Accessibility: The design prioritises inclusive, all-gender, accessible facilities, ensuring that all residents can enjoy the amenities without discrimination.
- Enhanced Spectator Experience: Improved amenities—headlined by the clubhouse and covered viewing deck—will make the venue more enjoyable for spectators.
- Sustainability and Comfort: The project focuses on creating a comfortable and sustainable environment for all users.
