THE 100-year-old Fremantle Workers Club building will be sold and membership transferred to facilities at the proposed Fremantle Park project.

Members met May 31 to be told that despite a doubling of membership and successful events, “the club is still unable to trade profitably”.

President Don Whittington says options were discussed for the club, which now boasts a membership of 800: “A significant factor was the considerable outgoings on the aging premises along with overheads such as power, insurance and rates.”

Committee member Ellis Griffiths says the most viable long-term option is to be a partner in Fremantle Park, where it will share premises with the Fremantle Tennis Club and Fremantle Bowling Club. The park is due to be completed by 2016.

Mr Griffiths told the meeting it is anticipated major capital funding will be provided by the council, state government and other clubs.

Mr Whittington says in the interim the club can share the South Fremantle Football Club’s Fremantle Oval premises. Workers’ club membership will include social membership of the football club. A special general meeting will be called once there is an acceptable offer to buy 9 Henry Street.

by CARMELO AMALFI