Essendon’s AFLW licence presents a ‘once in a generation’ opportunity for Windy Hill

Moonee Valley City Council has welcomed the announcement of Essendon Football Club’s AFLW licence, heralding the news as a ‘once in a generation opportunity’ to revitalise the Windy Hill precinct.

The licence, which is set to commence in 2022, was announced this week with the AFLW league to expand to an 18-team competition.

Moonee Valley Mayor, Cam Nation, said the announcement was exciting news and would present a number of opportunities to return the Bombers back to their ‘spiritual home’.

“The announcement of Essendon Football Club being granted an AFLW licence is a massive win for female football in Moonee Valley,” said Mayor Nation.

“It also presents a once in a generation opportunity to revitalise the club’s spiritual home at Windy Hill, and to ensure the Bombers have a permanent on-site presence at Windy Hill for decades to come.”

“Council looks forward to discussing opportunities for elite female football at Windy Hill with the football club, particularly given that Council is committed to delivering a community hub in Essendon, as part of our long-term MV2040 strategy.”

Mayor Nation also noted that the site is currently home to a number of tenants, and that any redevelopment would need to factor in their needs.

“Windy Hill is home to a range of other sporting clubs and a potential redevelopment may also enable these clubs to work with Council or other levels of Government to look for future opportunities either onsite or at alternate sport-specific locations,” said Mayor Nation.

“There is such a strong sporting culture here in Moonee Valley, and this news presents another opportunity to bring elite female sport to the heart of our city.”

Moonee Valley City Council also expressed an interest in partnering with the Essendon Football Club, AFL, State Government and Federal Government, to deliver the best possible outcome for female sport in the area.

“This announcement presents such an exciting opportunity for all levels of government to work in partnership with the Essendon Football Club and the AFL, to secure a future for the Windy Hill precinct and to allow the Essendon Bombers AFLW side to play right here in Essendon where they belong.”