Over the past five years, the Club has been involved in a project to have a hospitality and gaming facility of its own within the City of Maribyrnong; a project which has become known as Edgewater.
 
The Club agreed to lease the building once built by the developer Prizac, and to run it as a gaming, restaurant, sports bar and entertainment venue.  The financial and construction obligation to construct and complete the building has been at all times wholly the responsibility of Prizac.
 
Edgewater was intended to provide the Club with sources of diversified revenue.
 
Unfortunately, during the course of 2015, it has become clear that Prizac would not, and perhaps could not, meet its obligations as to completion of the Edgewater facility.
 
As a consequence, the Western Bulldogs Football Club has recently terminated the agreement to lease the Edgewater premises upon completion.
 
While the Club has expended money in acquiring gaming licences and professional fees in connection with the project we are confident of being able to successfully minimise the financial impact of the project not proceeding. This includes the prospect of a successful damages claim against Prizac and the potential value of the gaming licences.
 
While this is a disappointing outcome we have taken a strong stand in the best interests of our members and stakeholders.
 
Much of the detail in relation to these issues and the history of Edgewater has been subject to an enduring obligation of confidentiality on the part of the Club as a consequence of an agreement made by the Club in June 2011. Even though that agreement is now terminated, we will not go into further detail, save to make these points;
 
The Club's viability and liquidity is in no way threatened by the action we have today announced. We believe that taking this action is the prudent and responsible course which best protects the interests of the Club.
 
The Club has  kept senior management of the AFL informed of its thinking and decision-making at all times concerning the Edgewater project since 2011.
 
If an opportunity arose to continue a similar project with a new developer or owner, we would consider it in good faith.