Project Overview

Heritage doesn’t have to mean history Heritage Doesn’t Have to Mean History for a successful childcare centre development —a philosophy that MPG brought to life through the successful transformation of a heritage-listed residence and garden into a high-end, 91-place early learning centre in the heart of Moonee Ponds, Victoria.

MPG were engaged by the Moonee Valley Racing Club to provide a full turnkey solution, including securing a high quality long-term tenant, obtaining the necessary planning permits, and managing the builder tender and construction process. The development involved the conversion of the Club’s heritage-listed CEO residence, turning it into a flagship early childhood education facility that balances heritage sensitivity with modern functionality.

The site’s unique heritage attributes included the former Club Secretary’s House, designed in 1973 by architect HJ Wagstaff, showcasing Art Deco and Modern influences, and complemented by a mature garden originally crafted by the renowned landscape designer Edna Walling. Given its significance, the property was subject to rigorous external paint and tree controls, and required careful navigation of the heritage constraints to obtain the necessary planning approvals for demolition, new construction, and additional built form to support the childcare use.

MPG expertly navigated the complex planning landscape, including internal and external heritage constraints, to deliver a fully compliant and beautifully executed childcare centre. The project not only preserved the historic character of the site but enhanced its legacy through an adaptive reuse that supports the growing needs of the local community.

Upon opening, the centre achieved 100% occupancy with a full waitlist, underscoring the market demand and the quality of the development. The asset was later sold in 2019, delivering an outstanding 5.29% net yield—a testament to the project’s commercial and operational success.

Project Delivery Highlights

• Full Turnkey Solutions: Delivered end-to-end services, from planning to project completion
• Tenant Secured: Long-term lease in place with a premium early learning operator
• Planning Permit Acquisition: Successfully managed heritage and regulatory approvals
• Project & Construction Management: Oversaw the entire tendering process and build execution
• Heritage Integration: Honoured the building and garden’s legacy while meeting modern operational standards

Services Provided

• Property Search
• Centre Design & Design Management
• Development Management
• Project Administration for conversion and extension