The new PCYC board recently met with Council to discuss a rescue plan to stabilise the charity’s finances and operations. It sought $205,000 in support and left with a recommendation that Council contribute $22,000 for urgent repairs, with a further $60,000 to be considered in the next Council budget.
PCYC said the first tranche would fund priority works including mould remediation, flooring replacement, electrical repairs, power point maintenance, glass repair and the removal of an unsafe fountain. The works would allow the gym to reopen as early as July.
Council officers have also recommended that up to a further $60,000 be considered as part of the 2026–27 Council Budget, due to be finalised in late June.
PCYC president Bernie Marshall said he hoped councillors would back the recommendations on Wednesday.
‘Getting the gym reopened is an important step in our recovery plan,’ he said.
‘We are currently spending $12,000 a month from our reserves on youth programs. The additional $60,000 would give us a vital five months of breathing space.
‘We’ve got a new manager starting soon who will oversee a membership and volunteer drive.
‘PCYC has many friends and supporters, so we’ll be asking them to help with the revival,’ he said.
As part of its new volunteer model, St Kilda PCYC has established a dedicated team to lead philanthropic and community fundraising.
Council backs PCYC fundraising push
Alongside the financial support under consideration, Council is set to nominate St Kilda PCYC as an advocacy priority and contact ‘relevant external partners, including the Victorian and Australian governments, Victoria Police and potential philanthropic partners, regarding the value, benefits and ongoing needs of St Kilda PCYC’.
