Red Tag Precinct Project Question and Answer Page
The following section contains the questions and answers from members on the precinct strategy. This page will be frequently updated as questions come in addressing concerns over the project and the proposal.
To ask another question click here
The following section contains the questions and answers from members on the precinct strategy. This page will be frequently updated as questions come in addressing concerns over the project and the proposal.
To ask another question click here
Latest update: 11:30am 12 Nov 25
Questions and Answers
Question – Future of the RT club, not being absorbed by other club/s
- Answer – There will be dedicated spaces within the pavilion specifically for the RT Club and the club will retain full management control over the pavilion. This approach ensures that RT remains at the heart of operations and is well-positioned to drive its own growth and future development.
- Question - What if we had a major contributor to the AFFC wanting to perhaps have naming rights
- Answer – There is a comprehensive funding strategy and framework in place that allows major contributors to obtain rights for specific areas or features within the complex based on agreement with the Red Tag Management Committee. However, most significant donors typically prefer to remain anonymous.
- Answer – There is a comprehensive funding strategy and framework in place that allows major contributors to obtain rights for specific areas or features within the complex based on agreement with the Red Tag Management Committee. However, most significant donors typically prefer to remain anonymous.
- Question – The complex will need a volunteer manager to schedule things. There will be a lot of work for volunteers from the club. How will this be managed?
- Answer – It is unlikely that this role will be filled by a volunteer. A paid administrator will likely be required to manage scheduling and coordination for the complex. The associated costs will be included in the feasibility study conducted by the Project Working Group (PWG) and will form part of the decision to proceed with any capital works. The PWG will define the operational costs and income models in advance of any capital works, to ensure that it is not an undue drain on existing members' fees and volunteer time.
- Answer – It is unlikely that this role will be filled by a volunteer. A paid administrator will likely be required to manage scheduling and coordination for the complex. The associated costs will be included in the feasibility study conducted by the Project Working Group (PWG) and will form part of the decision to proceed with any capital works. The PWG will define the operational costs and income models in advance of any capital works, to ensure that it is not an undue drain on existing members' fees and volunteer time.
- Question – We don’t seem to have a plan B should his project not proceed.
- Answer - If this project does not proceed, Plan B would involve returning to the earlier approach of securing essential facilities such as shelter, electricity and water. We could also explore the possibility of pursuing a smaller-scale development for a dedicated $5–7 million RT only clubroom though this would present significant challenges.
- Answer - If this project does not proceed, Plan B would involve returning to the earlier approach of securing essential facilities such as shelter, electricity and water. We could also explore the possibility of pursuing a smaller-scale development for a dedicated $5–7 million RT only clubroom though this would present significant challenges.
- Question - What is the aspiration of the club? If we want to run the club as a business, i.e. say similar to a golf club, camaraderie may be lost and this may be the way the club is heading.
- Answer – Not all members are actively involved in day to day activities, but many value being part of an inclusive and welcoming club community. We believe that growing the membership will not diminish the camaraderie. In fact, it will enhance it. New members consistently express their appreciation for the club’s friendly and inclusive culture and we are committed to maintaining and strengthening that spirit as we evolve. The AFFC strategy does not seek to create a ‘super’ club, rather its aim is to provide a shared home for the many organisations. Those organisations will continue to maintain their own club identity and purpose.
- Answer – Not all members are actively involved in day to day activities, but many value being part of an inclusive and welcoming club community. We believe that growing the membership will not diminish the camaraderie. In fact, it will enhance it. New members consistently express their appreciation for the club’s friendly and inclusive culture and we are committed to maintaining and strengthening that spirit as we evolve. The AFFC strategy does not seek to create a ‘super’ club, rather its aim is to provide a shared home for the many organisations. Those organisations will continue to maintain their own club identity and purpose.
- Question – Do we have any opposition at this time?
- Answer – At this stage, we have not received any objections. The club has been in discussions with Government and Parks Victoria for 3 years regarding this precinct development.
- Answer – At this stage, we have not received any objections. The club has been in discussions with Government and Parks Victoria for 3 years regarding this precinct development.
- Question – Any concerns over the lighting.
- Answer – We have engaged a lighting consultant to manage all aspects of the lighting design and specifications ensuring that any potential concerns are properly addressed and the lighting is done to a commercial grade as part of the master plan activities. Initial feedback from consultants does not foresee any technical or environmental impacts.
- Answer – We have engaged a lighting consultant to manage all aspects of the lighting design and specifications ensuring that any potential concerns are properly addressed and the lighting is done to a commercial grade as part of the master plan activities. Initial feedback from consultants does not foresee any technical or environmental impacts.
- Question – What about environmental issues.
- Answer – Brand Architects will oversee all environmental compliance requirements. By the completion of the Master Plan we will have a clear understanding of whether the project fully meets all necessary environmental standards before proceeding to the next stage. These studies include, cultural heritage assessments, Heritage Victoria Assessments, Soil Studies, GeoTech Studies, Arborist and Traffic assessments amongst others.
- Answer – Brand Architects will oversee all environmental compliance requirements. By the completion of the Master Plan we will have a clear understanding of whether the project fully meets all necessary environmental standards before proceeding to the next stage. These studies include, cultural heritage assessments, Heritage Victoria Assessments, Soil Studies, GeoTech Studies, Arborist and Traffic assessments amongst others.
- Question – What happens when positions change at the club AGM. What’s to suggest that this project will not continue with a new committee.
- Answer - The continuation of the project will be determined by a member vote in November 2025. If approved, the project will proceed based on the members’ collective decision. The Club’s PWG will continue as the governing committee managing the project into the future. It is also expected that Stuart will continue to serve on the PWG regardless of any changes to the club’s executive positions.
- Answer - The continuation of the project will be determined by a member vote in November 2025. If approved, the project will proceed based on the members’ collective decision. The Club’s PWG will continue as the governing committee managing the project into the future. It is also expected that Stuart will continue to serve on the PWG regardless of any changes to the club’s executive positions.
- Question – If we receive Government funds it may come with caveats.
- Answer – If government funding is received it will come with specific conditions and reporting requirements. We will be required to complete an acquittal process to demonstrate that all funds have been spent in accordance with the criteria established by the funding authority.
- Answer – If government funding is received it will come with specific conditions and reporting requirements. We will be required to complete an acquittal process to demonstrate that all funds have been spent in accordance with the criteria established by the funding authority.
- Question – What are the budget considerations that the members should know.
- Answer – The club has received a $74K grant from The VFA ie. Fisheries to cover the Master Plan which forms part of the precinct development. At this stage the grant funds will cover the Master Plan. This represents a high-level plan and once it is completed the PWG will conduct a feasibility study to provide a more precise budget for future development. Member funds have not been spent on this project to date and the project will seek to be self funding / funded external to membership fees.
- Answer – The club has received a $74K grant from The VFA ie. Fisheries to cover the Master Plan which forms part of the precinct development. At this stage the grant funds will cover the Master Plan. This represents a high-level plan and once it is completed the PWG will conduct a feasibility study to provide a more precise budget for future development. Member funds have not been spent on this project to date and the project will seek to be self funding / funded external to membership fees.
- Question - How long will Red Tag have the lease to the precinct and what happens if Parks Victoria don’t extend it?
- Answer - Red Tag is undergoing a license extension with Parks Victoria (PV) to support a longer term license/lease to support a capital works/build program. Currently Red Tag has a limited license that is being resolved with PV to support an AFFC/Club room construction and management plan
- Answer - Red Tag is undergoing a license extension with Parks Victoria (PV) to support a longer term license/lease to support a capital works/build program. Currently Red Tag has a limited license that is being resolved with PV to support an AFFC/Club room construction and management plan
- Question - Will Red Tag members have to finance the build of the pavilion and if so, how will we pay for it?
- Answer - Yes, Red Tag and its AFFC supporters will need to finance the build. The construction costs are greater than Red Tag can support. The PWG, are seeking funding sources, from Grants, Government and Donations to support the capital works and ongoing management. The shared use model for the AFFC is designed to share the operating costs across a larger user/multi-tenancy base.
- Answer - Yes, Red Tag and its AFFC supporters will need to finance the build. The construction costs are greater than Red Tag can support. The PWG, are seeking funding sources, from Grants, Government and Donations to support the capital works and ongoing management. The shared use model for the AFFC is designed to share the operating costs across a larger user/multi-tenancy base.
- Question - What are the plans for management of the AFFC - Red Tag Pavilion once it is up and running? Will Red Tag members have to volunteer to run the Centre?
- Answer - The formal structure of the Pavillion management structure is yet to be finalised. The intent is to have a formal management committee made up of Red Tag and non Red Tag (AFFC) members, with Red Tag being the chair/facility owner. The PWG will develop the management structure proposal as part of the Feasibility study prior to the commitment of any capital works funds.
- Answer - The formal structure of the Pavillion management structure is yet to be finalised. The intent is to have a formal management committee made up of Red Tag and non Red Tag (AFFC) members, with Red Tag being the chair/facility owner. The PWG will develop the management structure proposal as part of the Feasibility study prior to the commitment of any capital works funds.
- Question - How will the annual running costs of the AFFC be funded?
- Answer - As above, Rental will be charged for the use of the main event space, club rooms, storage, simulated stream, lighting across the user base. Initial indications have the Pavillion/casting pool being used greater than 550 times per annum by unique user groups. Additional rental income will come from Private events, Training Days, Retail trade show/days. Potential community users during the day. The facility has event spaces, private meeting rooms, storage and kitchens, library/popup shop. All aspects will be available for rental income.
- Answer - As above, Rental will be charged for the use of the main event space, club rooms, storage, simulated stream, lighting across the user base. Initial indications have the Pavillion/casting pool being used greater than 550 times per annum by unique user groups. Additional rental income will come from Private events, Training Days, Retail trade show/days. Potential community users during the day. The facility has event spaces, private meeting rooms, storage and kitchens, library/popup shop. All aspects will be available for rental income.
- Question - Why can’t Red Tag carry out this project in its own right i.e. as a Red Tag only venture?
- Answer - Red Tag is currently a user of the casting pool and does not have formal rights to refuse entry to the casting pool. This will not change in the future. Additionally Red Tag Membership and current income streams are not able to meet the costs required to deliver or maintain a building of this size.
- Answer - Red Tag is currently a user of the casting pool and does not have formal rights to refuse entry to the casting pool. This will not change in the future. Additionally Red Tag Membership and current income streams are not able to meet the costs required to deliver or maintain a building of this size.
- Question - Will the AFFC have sufficient car parking spaces?
- Answer - Yes Car parking is designed to meet Victorian Car Parking standards
- Answer - Yes Car parking is designed to meet Victorian Car Parking standards
- Question - It appears that there are a lot of other fly fishing groups wanting to use the AFFC. This is great, but will there be enough room for everyone?
- Answer - The building is designed so that multiple groups can use the facility at any time eg major event (event room), management meeting (committee room), Library users (library), Club Managers activity (individual club rooms), Casting competitions (main northern pool), casting instruction on the simulated stream (eastern pool). The building is designed to its maximum size to fit within the limited space on the site.
- Answer - The building is designed so that multiple groups can use the facility at any time eg major event (event room), management meeting (committee room), Library users (library), Club Managers activity (individual club rooms), Casting competitions (main northern pool), casting instruction on the simulated stream (eastern pool). The building is designed to its maximum size to fit within the limited space on the site.
- Question - How will access to the building be managed ?
- Answer - It is the intention to install digital security, digital building management and a digital key access facility. This would enable unique digital keys to be assigned to individuals and can be maintained electronically as part of the building management system. “Guest” passes would be issued for access to rooms based on time of use and linked to billing and charge out systems. Security will include video surveillance to ensure security and will be coordinated by the building/facility management.
- Answer - It is the intention to install digital security, digital building management and a digital key access facility. This would enable unique digital keys to be assigned to individuals and can be maintained electronically as part of the building management system. “Guest” passes would be issued for access to rooms based on time of use and linked to billing and charge out systems. Security will include video surveillance to ensure security and will be coordinated by the building/facility management.
- Question - Who will run the centre and how especially long term?
- Answer - This is still up for discussion. The principle to be followed will be. Red Tag PWG/Committee will be the ultimate owner. Operational management will be done via a AFFC Management Structure which may include a board/manager or an outsourced provider or paid day to day manager. Prior to construction/Go ahead. A low RT club management structure will be created based on an economic model and feasibility report. It is imperative that what we build can ultimately be funded and managed long term. This will form part of the business case and feasibility studies.
- Answer - This is still up for discussion. The principle to be followed will be. Red Tag PWG/Committee will be the ultimate owner. Operational management will be done via a AFFC Management Structure which may include a board/manager or an outsourced provider or paid day to day manager. Prior to construction/Go ahead. A low RT club management structure will be created based on an economic model and feasibility report. It is imperative that what we build can ultimately be funded and managed long term. This will form part of the business case and feasibility studies.
- Question - Will the entire area including casting pool be fenced off or will dog walkers etc still have access?
- Answer - No the conditions of the Park Agreement current and future, will require that the casting pool and grounds remain open to the general public as per current arrangements. Dog walkers and ducks included
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- Answer - No the conditions of the Park Agreement current and future, will require that the casting pool and grounds remain open to the general public as per current arrangements. Dog walkers and ducks included
- Question. Is there a proposed project timeline for how long it would take to be using the facility. Even a rough guesstimate on breaking ground, construction, fit out, first club meeting in the new facility.
- Answer - At this stage timing is very fluid, the estimate from the architects is the build should take less than 1 year to build. So we would assume, post funding target achieved that it would take a 24 months/2 years to build once funding targets are reached. Eg a total of 2 years for planning, contracting, build, commissioning/fitout prior to opening. So Goal would be opening 2027/28
- Answer - At this stage timing is very fluid, the estimate from the architects is the build should take less than 1 year to build. So we would assume, post funding target achieved that it would take a 24 months/2 years to build once funding targets are reached. Eg a total of 2 years for planning, contracting, build, commissioning/fitout prior to opening. So Goal would be opening 2027/28
- Question - How will the facility be managed financially and will Red Tag members be expected to financially maintain the building?
- Answer – It is not proposed that RTFF members be financially responsible or liable for the AFFC. It is proposed that Red Tag Fly Fishers Club Inc (RTFF) will establish a special purpose entity (ManCo) to manage, operate and maintain the Australian Fly Fishing Centre (AFFC). It is proposed that the ManCo will be wholly owned by RTFF with board made up of RTFF members who will govern the ManCo in accordance with a constitution. The boards’ powers and the rights of RTFF as the sole shareholder will be set out in the constitution. Under this proposed arrangement, RTFF will remain the lessee/licensee under a lease/licence with Parks Victoria. The specifics of that lease/licence are subject to ongoing discussions with Parks Victoria. RTFF will sublet/sublicence the AFFC to ManCo and enter into a management agreement with ManCo to manage, operate and maintain the AFFC. RTFF will pay ManCo a service fee each year and ManCo will pay any rent to RTFF along with any outgoings associated with the AFFC. The calculation of the service fee and the rent will be determined in due course once the design specifics of the AFFC are more advanced. Sources of funding for these amounts will include, rent and fees payable by other tenants or uses of the AFFC along with sporting and other grants available to RTFF.
- Answer – It is not proposed that RTFF members be financially responsible or liable for the AFFC. It is proposed that Red Tag Fly Fishers Club Inc (RTFF) will establish a special purpose entity (ManCo) to manage, operate and maintain the Australian Fly Fishing Centre (AFFC). It is proposed that the ManCo will be wholly owned by RTFF with board made up of RTFF members who will govern the ManCo in accordance with a constitution. The boards’ powers and the rights of RTFF as the sole shareholder will be set out in the constitution. Under this proposed arrangement, RTFF will remain the lessee/licensee under a lease/licence with Parks Victoria. The specifics of that lease/licence are subject to ongoing discussions with Parks Victoria. RTFF will sublet/sublicence the AFFC to ManCo and enter into a management agreement with ManCo to manage, operate and maintain the AFFC. RTFF will pay ManCo a service fee each year and ManCo will pay any rent to RTFF along with any outgoings associated with the AFFC. The calculation of the service fee and the rent will be determined in due course once the design specifics of the AFFC are more advanced. Sources of funding for these amounts will include, rent and fees payable by other tenants or uses of the AFFC along with sporting and other grants available to RTFF.
- Question - How will the AFFC and Casting Pool upgrades be funded?
- Answer – It is early days in the funding process and the legal frameworks required to fund a centre of this type. Assuming the legal hurdles are cleared (see above), funding will be sourced through a range of known avenues. These include, Local, State and Federal Funding Streams (including Grants), including Sports and Recreation Grant Funds (Pool, Lighting, Paving), Major Event Funding (hosting / setup), Federal Sports Funding (AIS) for elite program development (facilities), Philanthropic and Donations and in kind services.
Red Tag has achieved Designated Gift Recipient (DGR) status via the Australian Sports Foundation (ASF). This enables individuals and Business’s to donate monies and services and claim tax deductibility. These mechanism are in place and will be formalise once signoff on the strategy and legal agreements are in place.
- Answer – It is early days in the funding process and the legal frameworks required to fund a centre of this type. Assuming the legal hurdles are cleared (see above), funding will be sourced through a range of known avenues. These include, Local, State and Federal Funding Streams (including Grants), including Sports and Recreation Grant Funds (Pool, Lighting, Paving), Major Event Funding (hosting / setup), Federal Sports Funding (AIS) for elite program development (facilities), Philanthropic and Donations and in kind services.