The official opening of the new Visy Park finished with a spectacular fireworks display that would rival many New Year’s Eve displays.

The fireworks completed a wonderful occasion for the Carlton Football Club following the official opening of the new $19.5 million redevelopment. Guests were given guided tours of the new facilities before hearing from the guest speakers who officially opened the new facilities. Speakers included:
•    Stephen Kernahan - Carlton President
•    Brett Ratten - Carlton Coach
•    Chris Judd - Carlton Captain
•    James Merlino - Minister for Sport, Recreation and Youth Affairs
•    Robert Doyle - Lord Mayor City of Melbourne
•    Anthony Pratt - co-chairman of Visy Industries
•    Jeanne Pratt - Patron of the Carlton Football Club.

James Merlino and Robert Doyle unveiled the official plaque to recognize the support provided by the funding partners in the project; Federal Government, State Government, City of Melbourne and the AFL. Stephen Kernahan and Jeanne Pratt unveiled a special portrait of former Carlton President, the late Richard Pratt as part of the official opening. This portrait will hang in the new boardroom, the Richard Pratt boardroom on the first level of the new building at Visy Park.

The fireworks came after guests moved outside to see the entertainment on a stage on the ground. Entertainment was provided by Mike Brady, The Qantas Choir and John Paul Young.

For guests it was a great ending to a very special night with a number of former Carlton players in attendance to see first-hand the wonderful new facilities, particular those now at the disposal of the Carlton players. Stephen Kernahan suggested that Carlton Premiership player and now Victorian Planning Minister, Justin Madden was very impressed but he didn’t know what all the gymnasium equipment was for. It has long been a standing joke with the players from Justin’s era that while he was a great player and enjoyed the game, he was not so keen on training and gym work was not something he enjoyed at all.

There is no doubt this is a new era for the Carlton Football Club.