Local flagship event, the Keilor Gift won’t be running this year after being stalled due to renovations at the venue — once complete, the works are expected to give way to a “bigger and better” carnival in 2026.
The annual affair first got off the line in 1939, and since then has grown quickly to become one of the biggest events in Keilor.
Keilor Football Club president Hayden Kelly said it was a significant day for the community.
“Everyone looks forward to it,” he said.
“It brings money into the community, gets people to come together, it’s massive.”
Given the weight it carries for locals, its absence this year will sorely be felt by all.
“The community is probably disappointed but they understand why it can’t go ahead,” Mr Kelly said.
Since October last year, works have been ramping up at the club rooms to renovate and extend the space.
“It’s a bit like a construction site at the moment so we didn’t want to hold the event because there’s risk associated — better to be safe than sorry,” Mr Kelly said.
“We’re inching towards completion, with everything looking to be done by June.
“It’s a case of people having to put up with some disruption to make progress and our improved facilities will help us host a bigger and better event next year.”
Once works are finished, the capacity of the club rooms will increase from 160 to 250.
The club’s kitchen, toilets and canteen are undergoing refurbishments too.
Prealene Khera
