About Brookie Forever

Paving the way for a modern,
community-friendly Brookvale Oval

It’s 1932. The Manly and Warringah Junior Rugby League is just established. There are five teams - Manly, Brookvale, Harbord, North Curl Curl and Narrabeen – and a shortage of enclosed grounds to make League viable. Manly Council says no to Manly Oval, but Warringah Council comes to the party and provides Brookvale Showground. The sport has begun in the northern beaches.

During World War II, Brookvale Oval is taken over by the military and the Junior League struggles for players and income. But, in 1946, when Manly beats North Sydney 12-8 in the President’s Cup, the district proves it’s capable of big time league and is granted admission to the 1947 senior competition.

There is now increased media and community pressure on Manly Council to allow use of Manly Oval. But it won’t change its stance of 15 years. So, on 20 November 1946, a public meeting forms the Manly-Warringah District Rugby League Football Club and votes to adopt maroon and white colours and Brookvale Oval as its home ground. Brookie is the official home.

For 20 years the ground is pretty basic. Then from 1965 there are gradual renovations until, by 1980, two grandstands along the southern and western sides have been constructed. In 1995 these are connected by the Ken Arthurson Stand.

Today Brookvale Oval has a capacity of 20,000 but no parking, ordinary facilities and when it rains most spectators get wet. Last year the club stepped up action for funding to improve the stadium. In 2008 the ‘Brookie Forever’ campaign has moved into top gear. The ground needs $20 million for a proper refurbishment.

How the heck do we get $20 million?

Warringah Council always came good when Brookie needed help in the past and it’s done it again. It’s offered $4 million – on the proviso the Sea Eagles raise the other $16 million. The big targets are State and Federal Government, as you might expect for a public facility, but there’s no guarantee.

However, if the local community shows its willing to pitch in, this not only helps fund a better Brookie but – very importantly – it shows the State and Federal Governments that people are helping themselves. It’s a gesture that says ‘Give us a hand not a handout’.

How you can help pave the way

The Sea Eagles Board has agreed that a special walkway should be included in the $20 million renovation. This gives fans and sponsors a once in a lifetime opportunity to have their name on their own paver on a walkway leading up to the main gates of the ground.

Donations start at $20 [maroon] and go through $100 [bronze], $500 [silver], $1,000 [gold] to $5,000 [platinum]. Every donation over $500 has the name of your choice inscribed on a paver. In addition, all donor names will go on an honour roll at the ground.

To place your order please click here