As World Cup excitement builds, the foreshore renaming is a simple but meaningful way for the local community and visitors to get behind the Socceroos and show support for the national team on the world stage.
For the remainder of Australia’s World Cup campaign, St Kilda Beach will take on its new name, inviting football fans, residents and visitors alike to share in the excitement and celebrate the team’s success.
St Kilda Town Hall will also be illuminated in green and gold tonight.
While the renaming recognises the emergence of Melbourne City and Socceroo goalkeeper Patrick Beach, it also reflects the broader pride in the Socceroos’ achievement and the strong connection between Melbourne and the national squad.
City of Port Phillip Mayor Alex Makin said: “What’s better than one iconic beach? Two – especially when one is named after a World Cup player. With the Socceroos progressing to the next round, this is a great way for our community to show its support.”
“This is about getting behind the Socceroos and sharing in the excitement of the World Cup at home. Renaming St Kilda Beach is a uniquely local way to celebrate the team and embrace the global energy right here in Port Phillip.”
Plans are also underway for a Patrick Beach mural, creating a backdrop for the community to celebrate Australia’s World Cup journey.
Melbourne City FC CEO Brad Rowse said the temporary renaming was a fitting way to celebrate Australia’s World Cup campaign.
“You spend years developing players and hope they make a World Cup squad. Having a beach renamed after one of them wasn’t something we’d planned for, but we’re happy to take it.” Rowse said.
“Patrick has captured the imagination of football fans around the country, and we’re incredibly proud to see him representing both Melbourne City and the Socceroos on the biggest stage.”
Beach is one of seven players with Melbourne City connections representing Australia at the World Cup, alongside Club captain Aziz Behich and Mathew Leckie, as well as former City Academy graduates Connor Metcalfe and Jordan Bos and former City players Aiden O’Neill and Kai Trewin.
Every World Cup inspires the next generation. For local families looking to kick-start that journey, Melbourne City Football School will deliver winter holiday camps at nearby JL Murphy Reserve in Port Melbourne on 29-30 June and 6-7 July, giving young footballers the opportunity to begin their own journey from Melbourne to football’s biggest stage.
Contacts:
Melbourne City FC:
Yana Kyparisis
P: 0419 444 729
City of Port Phillip:
Sandra Bull
P: 0401 367 627
