Junction Oval surface returns better than ever
Turf has been laid to the famous Junction Oval as a key milestone in the construction of the $40 million Victorian Cricket and Community Centre development.
After battling difficult conditions during the inclement spring season, the oval construction process was completed with the laying of Santa Anna washed sod turf which has been cultivating in South Australia for the last year.
Junction Oval - during construction (2016)
The redevelopment of the oval is a critical component of the Victorian Cricket and Community Centre project and the centrepiece for the new facility. The former oval whilst being renowned for having a pristine surface, suffered from poor sub-surface drainage which rendered the ground unplayable after periods of heavy rain.
The redevelopment of the oval involved an extensive planning and construction process. Waypoint, in its role as Project Director, has been a key driver in navigating through the lease, planning and heritage approval processes that have resulted in a widened oval to meet International Cricket Council (ICC) compliance and raised grassed spectator berms on the eastern side which will result in enhanced views onto the oval.
Junction Oval - turf down (2017)
Waypoint also worked closely with the project team and Cricket Victoria on the design and construction detail to ensure the final outcome delivered a high quality playing surface. This includes the provision of a high quality drainage and irrigation system to enable the oval to be used year-round and withstand the changing Melbourne climate.
The oval’s centre wicket block includes Merri Creek soil to replicate the playing conditions at the MCG. The project also includes the development of 30 additional outdoor and 10 indoor practice wickets to complement the existing practice wickets and significantly add to the capacity of the site to accommodate high levels of year-round use.
Junction Oval - northern practice wickets under consruction (2017)
The redeveloped Junction Oval site will act as an alternative first class facility to the MCG and set the benchmark for integrated cricket administration and high performance facilities around the country.
Waypoint is Project Director for the Victorian Cricket and Community Centre project, overseeing the project team and working with Cricket Victoria. Waypoint specialises in high performance sports facilities taking them from concept to realisation.