The project aims to provide a high-quality, durable playing surface that meets modern soccer standards. The synthetic pitch will enable year-round use, reduce maintenance costs, and improve accessibility for players and community members.

Please refer to our concept image which provides an idea of how the soccer fields could be laid out.

We propose to configure the playing area with line marking for multiple soccer fields.

Synthetic turf refers to any artificial turf surface used in sports ground construction including unfilled, filled and water-based surfaces.

Some of the benefits of using synthetic surfaces over natural turf are:

• can be used for an increased number of hours (compared to 25-30 hours per week for natural turf)
• all weather surface (during rain events and immediately after)
• takes pressure off natural turf field recovery times
• consistency of ball roll for training and competition purposes
• safer playing surface for users
• savings from maintenance costs
• water savings – no irrigation or watering required
• Consolidate club use and allow for additional participation opportunities and club growth

The existing flood lighting will be upgraded to energy efficient LED.

A targeted lighting solution will be designed to manage light spill.

The new synthetic sports field would not need irrigation and would therefore use significantly less water, as well as not needing pesticides.

We are also investigating other sustainable elements for the synthetic turf including:

• A design plan that ensures no microplastic movement
• Natural infill options such as coconut husk and cork granules

Currently in Australia, when synthetic turf has reached the end of its useful life, it can be repurposed for schools or equestrian clubs. However, at end of the synthetic turf’s life cycle in this project (10+years), Australia will have the ability to recycle the surface. For more information read about Australia's first Synthetic Turf Recycling Hub on Sustainability Victoria’s website.

The pitch will include perimeter fencing that remains unlocked and open to the public.

No, dogs would not be allowed on the synthetic sports field. However, the rest of RHL Sparks Reserve is a dog-off lead area.

The intention of the project is to maximise community benefit and as such it will be open to the whole community, except during formal approved community sport activities such as training or competition as governed by Council's Sporting Facilities Guide.

Council manages the use of this site through our Seasonal Allocation process which is governed by Council's Sporting Facilities Guide.

The project is in the detailed design phase. This stage involves finalising technical specifications, field layout, and materials to ensure the pitch meets performance, safety and environmental requirements before construction begins.

Yes, the synthetic pitch is designed for both community and club use. The schedule will accommodate various user groups, including local soccer clubs, schools, and community organisations.

Synthetic pitches offer consistent playing conditions, reduced maintenance requirements, and the ability to withstand heavy use without deteriorating, making them ideal for areas with high demand for playing time.

The project includes environmentally conscious decisions, such as using durable, safe materials. Water usage for maintenance will be significantly reduced compared to natural grass,and we will be using eco-friendly materials and infill.

Player safety is a top priority in the design. The surface will be engineered to minimize injury risks, with appropriate shock absorption and high-quality turf. The pitch will be certified to FIFA safety standards.

Yes, the project includes several upgrades:

• Sealing of the gravel car park to improve parking conditions.

• An accessible path of travel from the pavilion to the pitch.

• A circulating path to the north, providing accessible travel from the sealed car park at the rear to the pitch.