The Fly Fishing Centre – Precinct Master Plan
Last update: 18/11/2025
AFFC Project Update – Member Vote, Sector Support & Ministerial Launch (Postponed)
Over the past month, the Precinct Working Group (PWG) has taken several major steps toward formalising the next phase of the Australian Fly Fishing Centre – Red Tag Pavilion.
Over the past month, the Precinct Working Group (PWG) has taken several major steps toward formalising the next phase of the Australian Fly Fishing Centre – Red Tag Pavilion.
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Member Vote on the AFFC Strategy
This month, the Red Tag Committee finalised a formal resolution for all eligible Red Tag members to vote on.
The motion asked members to support: The development and management of the Australian Fly Fishing Centre – Red Tag Pavilion at Fairlea Road, on behalf of the Australian fly fishing sector and Red Tag membership. To assist members in making an informed decision, a full information pack — including briefing notes, the slide deck, and a detailed presentation on the vision — has been prepared and formally voted on by the membership. This resolution has been ratified by the Red Tag membership.
Strengthened Support From External Partners
In the last 30 days, key industry and community partners — including VFFA, Mending Casts, Fly Fish Australia, Victorian
Fisheries Authority (VFA), and others — have reaffirmed their support for Red Tag as the lead developer and precinct manager in partnership with Parks Victoria.
These groups have made it clear that they do not seek operational control. Instead, they view Red Tag’s leadership as essential to unifying the sport, strengthening pathways for participation, and establishing a national home for fly fishing.
Ministerial Launch
The next major milestone is the Ministerial Launch of the Master Plan, taking place in 2026 at the Fairlea Road casting pool.
This month, the Red Tag Committee finalised a formal resolution for all eligible Red Tag members to vote on.
The motion asked members to support: The development and management of the Australian Fly Fishing Centre – Red Tag Pavilion at Fairlea Road, on behalf of the Australian fly fishing sector and Red Tag membership. To assist members in making an informed decision, a full information pack — including briefing notes, the slide deck, and a detailed presentation on the vision — has been prepared and formally voted on by the membership. This resolution has been ratified by the Red Tag membership.
Strengthened Support From External Partners
In the last 30 days, key industry and community partners — including VFFA, Mending Casts, Fly Fish Australia, Victorian
Fisheries Authority (VFA), and others — have reaffirmed their support for Red Tag as the lead developer and precinct manager in partnership with Parks Victoria.
These groups have made it clear that they do not seek operational control. Instead, they view Red Tag’s leadership as essential to unifying the sport, strengthening pathways for participation, and establishing a national home for fly fishing.
Ministerial Launch
The next major milestone is the Ministerial Launch of the Master Plan, taking place in 2026 at the Fairlea Road casting pool.
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Over the past month, Red Tag has:
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Last update: 14/11/2025
Project Update – What’s Been Happening in October
The past month has been one of the most significant in the entire journey toward establishing the Australian Fly Fishing Centre (AFFC) – Red Tag Pavilion. After nearly three years of planning, consultation, and design work, the project has entered a decisive stage — and Red Tag members, partners, and supporters have been deeply involved every step of the way.
Major Progress on the Precinct Strategy
Over the last 30 days, the Red Tag Committee, the Precinct Project Working Group (PWG) and the Design Advisory Panel (DAP) have continued to meet multiple times each month to refine the vision for the precinct. Their collective work represents contributions from more than 40 members and sector partners, all aligned around building a world-class fly fishing facility at Fairlea Road.
This month, the Club received formal endorsement from the Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA), supporting the concept of the Australian Fly Fishing Centre and recognising Red Tag as the lead organisation and long-term custodian of the precinct. This endorsement has strengthened our position with Parks Victoria and government stakeholders.
Member Briefings and Consultation A major focus in the last month has been engaging the Red Tag membership.
We held a full member briefing and presentation, outlining:
The past month has been one of the most significant in the entire journey toward establishing the Australian Fly Fishing Centre (AFFC) – Red Tag Pavilion. After nearly three years of planning, consultation, and design work, the project has entered a decisive stage — and Red Tag members, partners, and supporters have been deeply involved every step of the way.
Major Progress on the Precinct Strategy
Over the last 30 days, the Red Tag Committee, the Precinct Project Working Group (PWG) and the Design Advisory Panel (DAP) have continued to meet multiple times each month to refine the vision for the precinct. Their collective work represents contributions from more than 40 members and sector partners, all aligned around building a world-class fly fishing facility at Fairlea Road.
This month, the Club received formal endorsement from the Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA), supporting the concept of the Australian Fly Fishing Centre and recognising Red Tag as the lead organisation and long-term custodian of the precinct. This endorsement has strengthened our position with Parks Victoria and government stakeholders.
Member Briefings and Consultation A major focus in the last month has been engaging the Red Tag membership.
We held a full member briefing and presentation, outlining:
- The journey so far
- The purpose and benefit of the AFFC
- How branding and naming strengthen our funding case
- The views of partners such as VFFA, Mending Casts, FFA and more
- What the precinct will mean for Red Tag’s long-term future
Last update: 5 October 2025
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The Fairlea Rd Fly Fishing Precinct
- A Legacy in the Making For more than seventy years, the Fairlea Road casting pool at Yarra Bend has been a quiet cornerstone of Melbourne’s fly-fishing life. Nestled in the heart of Fairfield, it has been the place where generations first took rod in hand, where competitors honed their accuracy, and where countless anglers simply found joy in the rhythm of the cast. If you ask members of the many clubs who use the facility, almost everyone has a story that begins there. The pool has witnessed beginners unravelling their first clumsy loops, experienced casters pushing the limits of distance and finesse, and national champions preparing for competitions at home and abroad. It is both training ground and sanctuary, equally suited to a casual Sunday practice as it is to the fine art of competition casting. Now, this much-loved pool is poised to anchor something even greater: the Fairlea Road Fly Fishing Centre. Click the link to read about the Shared Vision of our Fairlea Rd Fly Fishing Centre 
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Last update: 12 August 2025
Precinct Master Plan Consultants Appointed - Brand Architects
The Red Tag Fly Fishers Club is pleased to announce the appointment of Brand Architects as the provider of the Master Plan Consultancy works for its Fairlea Road precinct redevelopment.
Following a detailed Request for Quotation process undertaken by the Project WorkingGroup, Brand Architects was selected to lead the design and planning process for the fly-fishing precinct. The appointment was formally shared with members during the club’s
recent Annual General Meeting.
Brand Architects will work closely with the club’s committee, members, and key stakeholders to develop a comprehensive master plan that enhances the precinct’s facilities, while preserving its unique heritage and supporting future growth.
Club President Stuart Murphy welcomed the appointment, saying:
“We are delighted to have Brand Architects on board. Their experience in delivering high-quality, community-focused facilities will help ensure our precinct continues to be a vibrant home for the sport of fly-fishing.
“This is an important milestone for Red Tag. The master plan will set the vision for our facilities for decades to come, and we’re confident Brand Architects will help us achieve something truly special for our members and the wider community.”
Project Timeline
Phase Timeline
Consultant Appointed August 2025
Draft Master Plan Delivered December 2025
Formal Report to Victorian Fisheries February 2026
Subsequent Stages Capital works phases to follow master plan approval
The master plan is expected to include upgraded lighting, improved access pathways, and a new multi-use pavilion to serve as both a clubhouse and an events space for the fly fishing community. These improvements will ensure the precinct supports both recreational and competitive fly-
casting for years to come.
Founded in 1998, Brand Architects is a Melbourne-based practice specialising in architecture, interior design, and master planning for community, education, health, and sport facilities. Their portfolio includes award-winning projects across Victoria, with a
strong focus on sustainable design, accessibility, and spaces that foster social connection.
With a track record in delivering projects that balance functional performance with design excellence, Brand Architects brings a wealth of expertise to the Red Tag precinct project. Their collaborative approach and commitment to creating inclusive environments align
closely with the Club’s vision for the site’s future.
Further information about Brand Architects and their portfolio can be found at. https://www.brandarchitects.com.au
The Red Tag Fly Fishers Club is pleased to announce the appointment of Brand Architects as the provider of the Master Plan Consultancy works for its Fairlea Road precinct redevelopment.
Following a detailed Request for Quotation process undertaken by the Project WorkingGroup, Brand Architects was selected to lead the design and planning process for the fly-fishing precinct. The appointment was formally shared with members during the club’s
recent Annual General Meeting.
Brand Architects will work closely with the club’s committee, members, and key stakeholders to develop a comprehensive master plan that enhances the precinct’s facilities, while preserving its unique heritage and supporting future growth.
Club President Stuart Murphy welcomed the appointment, saying:
“We are delighted to have Brand Architects on board. Their experience in delivering high-quality, community-focused facilities will help ensure our precinct continues to be a vibrant home for the sport of fly-fishing.
“This is an important milestone for Red Tag. The master plan will set the vision for our facilities for decades to come, and we’re confident Brand Architects will help us achieve something truly special for our members and the wider community.”
Project Timeline
Phase Timeline
Consultant Appointed August 2025
Draft Master Plan Delivered December 2025
Formal Report to Victorian Fisheries February 2026
Subsequent Stages Capital works phases to follow master plan approval
The master plan is expected to include upgraded lighting, improved access pathways, and a new multi-use pavilion to serve as both a clubhouse and an events space for the fly fishing community. These improvements will ensure the precinct supports both recreational and competitive fly-
casting for years to come.
Founded in 1998, Brand Architects is a Melbourne-based practice specialising in architecture, interior design, and master planning for community, education, health, and sport facilities. Their portfolio includes award-winning projects across Victoria, with a
strong focus on sustainable design, accessibility, and spaces that foster social connection.
With a track record in delivering projects that balance functional performance with design excellence, Brand Architects brings a wealth of expertise to the Red Tag precinct project. Their collaborative approach and commitment to creating inclusive environments align
closely with the Club’s vision for the site’s future.
Further information about Brand Architects and their portfolio can be found at. https://www.brandarchitects.com.au
Brand Architects - Company Profile
Last update: 26 June 2025
Fly Fishing Precinct Sponsors and Supporters - Project Update page
Red Tag Fly Fishers Club (the club) has coordinated the maintenance and upkeep of the Fairlea Rd Casting pool on behalf of the many Fishing clubs and Fly Fishers in Melbourne for multiple decades in conjunction with Parks Victoria. The club is proud to maintain and coordinate this resource for the community groups that use this fantastic inner city facility.
The club is honoured to be able to coordinate the uplift of the Fairlea Rd Casting pool and area as a common resource for the fly fishing community and its many users.
This webpage and newsletter are designed to enable you to keep up to date and get involved in this project from conceptualisation through to delivery. For more information, please contact the Red Tag Club directly at [email protected] or subscribe to the precinct newsletter to stay informed.
Red Tag Fly Fishers Club (the club) has coordinated the maintenance and upkeep of the Fairlea Rd Casting pool on behalf of the many Fishing clubs and Fly Fishers in Melbourne for multiple decades in conjunction with Parks Victoria. The club is proud to maintain and coordinate this resource for the community groups that use this fantastic inner city facility.
The club is honoured to be able to coordinate the uplift of the Fairlea Rd Casting pool and area as a common resource for the fly fishing community and its many users.
This webpage and newsletter are designed to enable you to keep up to date and get involved in this project from conceptualisation through to delivery. For more information, please contact the Red Tag Club directly at [email protected] or subscribe to the precinct newsletter to stay informed.
If you would like to stay informed on the precinct development program and its updates please subscribe through the following link:
Precinct Newsletter Subscription Link
Precinct Newsletter Subscription Link
To contact the project working group: please email Stuart Murphy Club President at [email protected]
Updated: 26 June 2025
🎣 Master Plan – Project Update:
Fly Fishing Precinct Project is now officially underway
The Red Tag Fly Fishing Club is thrilled to announce that the Fly Fishing Precinct Project is now officially underway!
This exciting initiative will see the development of a permanent fly fishing precinct at our iconic location, including a multi-use clubhouse, an enhanced casting pool, and access features such as paving and lighting to support inclusive, day-and-night casting and events.
To kick off community engagement, we’ve established a “Friends of the Casting Precinct” mailing list, and held our first stakeholder Zoom briefing on 5 June. Thank you to everyone who participated and shared your insights.
As part of our next steps, the Precinct Subcommittee issued a formal Request for Tender to engage a Master Plan Consultant with expertise in architecture and sports facility design.
We are pleased to report that multiple formal responses have now been received. The Project Working Group is actively evaluating these tenders with a goal to appoint the consulting group by the end of July. Once appointed, the Master Plan consulting work is scheduled to commence in August, with an expected duration of 3 to 4 months.
During this time, the consultant will work closely with the Red Tag community, stakeholders, and the subcommittee to deliver a precinct plan that reflects our club’s vision, heritage, and future growth.
🔗 Stay Involved! via the newsletter
There, you can also submit your thoughts through our Precinct Survey — your input is valued and helps shape the future of this important project.
Fly Fishing Precinct Project is now officially underway
The Red Tag Fly Fishing Club is thrilled to announce that the Fly Fishing Precinct Project is now officially underway!
This exciting initiative will see the development of a permanent fly fishing precinct at our iconic location, including a multi-use clubhouse, an enhanced casting pool, and access features such as paving and lighting to support inclusive, day-and-night casting and events.
To kick off community engagement, we’ve established a “Friends of the Casting Precinct” mailing list, and held our first stakeholder Zoom briefing on 5 June. Thank you to everyone who participated and shared your insights.
As part of our next steps, the Precinct Subcommittee issued a formal Request for Tender to engage a Master Plan Consultant with expertise in architecture and sports facility design.
We are pleased to report that multiple formal responses have now been received. The Project Working Group is actively evaluating these tenders with a goal to appoint the consulting group by the end of July. Once appointed, the Master Plan consulting work is scheduled to commence in August, with an expected duration of 3 to 4 months.
During this time, the consultant will work closely with the Red Tag community, stakeholders, and the subcommittee to deliver a precinct plan that reflects our club’s vision, heritage, and future growth.
🔗 Stay Involved! via the newsletter
There, you can also submit your thoughts through our Precinct Survey — your input is valued and helps shape the future of this important project.
Fly Fishing and Casting Precinct Project Club and Supporter Goal
The mission of the Red Tag Fly Fishing Club is to create a vibrant and inclusive community of fly fishing enthusiasts dedicated to promoting the art and sport of fly fishing.
The precinct project's goal is to support the establishment of a permanent fly fishing precinct, including a multi-use clubhouse and improved fly fishing casting pool with all access paving and lighting to support night casting and activities for fly fishing users and associated clubs and their members.
The project has 3 phases
Phase 1: Precinct Master Plan - Planning Commencing July 2025
Phase 2: Improved lighting (capital works) and Improved pathways and access (capital works)
Phase 3: Pavilion/Clubhouse (Buildout)
The proposed Fly Fishing precinct will include a pavilion/clubhouse that will serve as a permanent and central gathering place for members, affiliated organisations and the community, offering a space for meetings, educational programs, and social events.
The purpose built casting pool, equipped with proper lighting, all access paving and pool apron will be a facility for fly fishing enthusiasts to safely practice and refine their skills day and night.
It will also serve as a potential venue for competitive casting, potentially hosting state and national-level competitions, whilst supporting expanded usage of the site with partnering organisations and communities.
The establishment of the Red Tag Fly Fishing Club's precinct strategy including clubhouse and casting pool upgrades represents a significant opportunity to enhance the local fly fishing community, promote conservation efforts, and contribute to the overall well-being of our community.
Through collaboration, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to our mission, we are confident in our ability to secure the necessary funding to make this vision a reality.
The precinct project's goal is to support the establishment of a permanent fly fishing precinct, including a multi-use clubhouse and improved fly fishing casting pool with all access paving and lighting to support night casting and activities for fly fishing users and associated clubs and their members.
The project has 3 phases
Phase 1: Precinct Master Plan - Planning Commencing July 2025
Phase 2: Improved lighting (capital works) and Improved pathways and access (capital works)
Phase 3: Pavilion/Clubhouse (Buildout)
The proposed Fly Fishing precinct will include a pavilion/clubhouse that will serve as a permanent and central gathering place for members, affiliated organisations and the community, offering a space for meetings, educational programs, and social events.
The purpose built casting pool, equipped with proper lighting, all access paving and pool apron will be a facility for fly fishing enthusiasts to safely practice and refine their skills day and night.
It will also serve as a potential venue for competitive casting, potentially hosting state and national-level competitions, whilst supporting expanded usage of the site with partnering organisations and communities.
The establishment of the Red Tag Fly Fishing Club's precinct strategy including clubhouse and casting pool upgrades represents a significant opportunity to enhance the local fly fishing community, promote conservation efforts, and contribute to the overall well-being of our community.
Through collaboration, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to our mission, we are confident in our ability to secure the necessary funding to make this vision a reality.
Updated: 20 May 2025
RMIT Vocational Education - Student building design
Red Tag Fly Fishing and RMIT Vocational Education - building design students have embarked on a multi year collaboration resulting in an annual student Red Tag Fly Fishing precinct design project.
This project will help inform members and supporters on options and concepts that can then be used to support the Master plan consultant's design work. Click here to learn more
This project will help inform members and supporters on options and concepts that can then be used to support the Master plan consultant's design work. Click here to learn more
Updated: 15 May 2025
Casting Pool Precinct Survey
Dear Fairlea Park & Casting Pool Precinct Users
The Red Tag Fly Fishers are excited to be leading the development of an upgraded fly-fishing precinct at the Fairlea Rd casting pool at Fairfield. With initial funding for the master plan already secured, this project aims to establish a permanent and viable home for fly fishing enthusiasts across Melbourne and beyond.
To ensure that this precinct truly meets the needs of the wider fly fishing community, we have developed a survey to gather feedback on key aspects of the precinct’s design and facilities and potential usage needs and opportunities.
We kindly request that Fly Fishing Clubs, Fly Fishers, Red Tag Members and community users assist us by completing the survey. By completing and distributing this survey to other users and organisations we can ensure good design and community engagement and maximise the benefit to our broader community.
If you have any questions, please reach out to the precinct subcommittee at email [email protected] and please complete the survey by 31 July 2025.
Warm regards,
Red Tag Precinct Subcommittee
Update: 8th April 2025
Precinct Master Plan- Ministerial Announcement
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The Allan Government via the Victorian Fisheries Authority announced the 2023-24 Recreational fishing grant recipients on Friday 7th Feb 2025. The Red Tag Fly Fishers Clubs was successful in achieving funding for the master planning for an improved fly-fishing precinct at the existing Yarra Bend Fairfield casting facility.
Red Tag Club and the Fly Fishing community are appreciative of the commitment by the government to improve this much loved area working with Parks Victoria, Yarra City Council, Fly Fishing club users, and other area stakeholders. The project will be initiated in 2025 via the Red Tag Fly Fishing club’s “Precinct Project Committee” who will bring to life the vision and opportunity for the recreational and club fly fishing community. |
Media Release
https://www.kattheophanous.com.au/newsandmediablog/flyfishing-precinct-plan-for-yarra-bend
This page will be updated as the project progresses with further information.
Updated: 8th April 2025
Local Minister's Visit to Red Tag Casting Pool
Minister Steve Dimopoulos and local member Kat Theophanous attended the Red Tag casting pool on Tuesday 8th of April 2025 to recognise the grant that has been awarded to Red Tag through the 2023-24 RFL large grants round.
Also in attendance were the Victorian Fly Fishers Association (VFFA), Members of mending casts, Parks Victoria, Victorian Fisheries, Southern Fly Fishing Club, and the City of Yarra Mayor.
A photoshoot and announcement around the grant occurred in front of around 50 attendees.
The support and cohesion shown by members of the Fly Fishing community and industry on the day was exceptional and we have demonstrated to the Minister and the many attendees what can be done when we all work together. Thanks again to all the Red Tag members who tirelessly setup and pulled down all of the event displays in what was a very hectic few hours.
Also in attendance were the Victorian Fly Fishers Association (VFFA), Members of mending casts, Parks Victoria, Victorian Fisheries, Southern Fly Fishing Club, and the City of Yarra Mayor.
A photoshoot and announcement around the grant occurred in front of around 50 attendees.
The support and cohesion shown by members of the Fly Fishing community and industry on the day was exceptional and we have demonstrated to the Minister and the many attendees what can be done when we all work together. Thanks again to all the Red Tag members who tirelessly setup and pulled down all of the event displays in what was a very hectic few hours.
Supporters of the enhanced fly fishing precinct and master plan
The following organisations have provided written support for the enhancement of the fly fishing precinct as outlined in the request for support letter below:
Letters to the Fly Fishing and Precinct Supporters
The following letter has been sent to a range of fly fishing stakeholders and supporters over the prior 2 years. We are deeply appreciative of the spirit of collaboration from our supporters as we move towards an improved casting facility for inner Melbourne at the existing Fairlea Rd facility.
The following letter has been sent to a range of fly fishing stakeholders and supporters over the prior 2 years. We are deeply appreciative of the spirit of collaboration from our supporters as we move towards an improved casting facility for inner Melbourne at the existing Fairlea Rd facility.
Invitation to collaborate on the development of a permanent shared Fly Fishing Precinct, club rooms and competitive casting facility
Dear Fly Fishers,
On behalf of the Red Tag Fly Fishers, I am writing to extend an invitation to you to collaborate on an exciting initiative: the establishment of a shared fly fishing precinct and competition casting facility at our current casting pool site at Yarra Bend, Fairfield.
Our vision is to provide a permanent, viable, and long-term home for Melbourne-based fly fishers while promoting the growth of our sport and the conservation of our history.
I am pleased to inform you that initial funding for the development of the master plan for this precinct has already been secured. This milestone represents a significant step toward realising our goal, but much work remains. To bring this project to fruition, we will need to liaise closely with Yarra City Council, Parks Victoria, and other key stakeholders to ensure the design aligns with community needs and secures the necessary government support for long-term success.
We believe that your organisation’s expertise, networks, and shared passion for fly casting will be invaluable as we move forward. Specifically, to collaborate with the Australian Casting Federation and other fly fishing organisations in the following areas:
1. Design and Development Input: to ensure the master plan reflects the needs and aspirations of fly fishers across Victoria.
2. Advocacy and Engagement: to build relationships with stakeholders, including local councils, Parks Victoria, and government representatives, to secure broad support and funding for a permanent precinct.
3. Skill and Knowledge Sharing: to access the financial grants, political contacts, design, and technical skills that will help bring this vision to life.
We envision the precinct will be a hub for fly fishing enthusiasts, offering features such as improved casting ponds, permanent club meeting rooms and workshop spaces, storage facilities, and other amenities that support education, community building, and memorabilia/conservation efforts.
We seek to engage fly fishers on the design of the master plan and future strategies for the precinct to ensure that any strategies and enhancement build the capability of the competitive casting area and can be supported within the Red Tag clubhouse aspirations.
We would welcome meetings with your leadership team to discuss this initiative further and outline how we can work together. Please let us know a time that works best for you, and we will coordinate the details.
We are excited about the potential to strengthen our shared objectives and establish a legacy that benefits fly fishers across Melbourne for generations to come.
Thank you for considering this opportunity to work with us on this transformative project.
Warm regards
Red Tag Fly Fishers Club Committee