John Connell Reserve is a sprawling cricket ground located between Melville Glades Golf Course and Roe Highway in the suburb of Leeming, Western Australia. Spanning a total area of 115 hectares, the reserve offers a multitude of active and passive areas for various recreational activities.
For those looking to enjoy a barbecue with friends and family, the reserve provides ample BBQ facilities that are easily accessible. Visitors can also bring their dogs along to the reserve, as it is a dog-friendly environment. Additionally, there is a playground available for children to enjoy, complete with modern play equipment to keep them entertained.
Sport enthusiasts will find the John Connell Reserve to be a prime location for a range of sporting activities. The reserve can accommodate cricket, soccer, and archery, with sports equipment readily available for use during sporting events. For those looking to improve their basketball skills, there is a basketball hoop available, as well as a hit-up wall for practising cricket shots.
The reserve also offers hire facilities for private functions, with a capacity of up to 300 people. Whether it's a wedding ceremony, a birthday party, or a family reunion, the Dundee Street end of the reserve provides a picturesque setting. Larger events with a capacity of up to 2,000 people are also possible, but they require an approved Event Application from the City of Melville.
John Connell Reserve is named after former Councillor John Edward Connell, who served in the council from 1940 to 1942 and again from 1957 to 1970. This dedication to a prominent figure in the community highlights the significance of the reserve in the local area.
When making a booking at John Connell Reserve, there are a few important guidelines to keep in mind. Bouncy castles and marquees are only permitted with the necessary approval, and structures must be securely fastened using weights, as pegs or stakes are not allowed. Furthermore, the use of confetti is prohibited within the reserve. Bookings are not accepted for public holidays or 18th and 21st birthday parties, and larger functions and weddings may require overflow parking arrangements with additional charges.
To check for available dates or enquire about hire rates, individuals can contact the Customer Relations Team at the City of Melville or utilise the online Hire Enquiries form. A site plan is required for functions with more than 100 guests, and all bookings are considered tentative until full payment is made.
John Connell Reserve not only provides a beautiful and expansive space for outdoor activities but also serves as a hub for community gatherings and celebrations. The reserve's prime location and versatile facilities make it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike to come together and enjoy the great outdoors.