With an impressive array of people around the table, there was clearly a load of love in the room for the beleaguered but beloved St Kilda PCYC. However, the Club’s strategic plan to use the St Kilda PCYC as a springboard for a statewide operation was overshadowed by the need to get the St Kilda club fully functioning again.
Because the roundtable was a private meeting, TWISK can only report on themes rather than specifics. These observations are drawn from multiple participants speaking ‘on background’.
The participants were impressed by the personal testimonies given by two younge PCYC participants who explained the positive role in their lives.
Participants also indicated support for re-opening the gymnasium and working with participants to make that a self-funding operation.
Multiple participants urged the PCYC board to invite more community participation in decision-making, possibly ensuring gym members can be part of a forthcoming AGM.
People familiar with the way government funding works emphasised the need to have data and evidence of success, plus the need to demonstrate community support and participation.
Representatives of funding sources generally said that a St Kilda-first revitalisation was the best first step to securing ongoing support.
Government MPs noted no funding submissions had been received from PCYC, but a state MP has submitted request on the PCYC anyway and this would work its way through the budget process.
Council and MPs noted that funding is dependent on community engagement and members voting rights being clarified. PCYC board confirmed they are working through a process to facilitate more members being able to vote at the AGM.
TWISK anticipates that the PCYC Board will call an AGM in coming weeks. At that meeting, all eyes will be on the steps taken to rally community support for a way forward that sees the PCYC stay in Inkerman Street as an essential first step.
TWiSK welcomes contributions from the PCYC Board for publication.
