Council is trialing a new system that aims to create more opportunities for juniors to stay active and play sport. It is hoped that the new arrangements will enable junior competitions to proceed but ensure that the playing fields are kept to an acceptable and safe standard during periods of wet weather.
What is the new system?
Under the new system, all but the main playing fields will remain open to junior age competitions, with these fields only closed in exceptional weather circumstances. In line with the existing system, seniors (over 16) will be permitted to play only when fields are declared open by Council. Clubs who disregard Council advice with regard to closure of fields will be liable for any repair costs and/or fines applicable.
Why are we changing the system?
Gold Coast City’s sporting fields are facing a difficult winter season as a result of La Nina and this has hampered field restoration usually carried out between October and March. Council closes the majority of sporting fields during and after wet weather due to low aspect and drainage capabilities. The ongoing wet weather means that sport is not being played as often as the community requires. This year, the extreme weather conditions have created a particularly challenging scenario in meeting the community’s needs while ensuring an acceptable and safe standard of all sports fields. If the use of playing fields is not closely regulated, Council could face a significant repair bill at the end of the season. Clubs could also experience increased downtime of the fields in the following season in order to facilitate repairs. Council is asking sports clubs to consider the long-term health of the fields and work with it on this challenge. Council is trying to keep children’s needs at heart and ensure they can stay active but mother nature has not been kind, so there has to be cooperation at all levels. The new system will be trialed during winter 2011 and a report assessing the impacts and effectiveness will be prepared and presented to Council at the end of the year.
Why have sports fields been closed recently?
The east coast of Australia has experienced the devastating effects of a strong La Nina weather pattern which traditionally brings an extremely wet summer. This system, along with the recent wet weather, has created extremely soggy conditions on the majority of fields on the Gold Coast.
How many sporting fields are on the Gold Coast?
Council’s Parks & Recreational Services manages more than 200 playing surfaces. Sporting clubs, schools and community groups enter into a right of use agreement to use these facilities. The annual cost to maintain the city’s sporting fields is in excess of $3.5 million each year. Each club contributes $165 annually, or $22,000 in total, with the shortfall met by general ratepayers.
Where can I find the most up to date open/closed information?
Conditions vary from field to field depending on the amount of rain and drainage capability at individual grounds across the city. Council’s sports field hotline and Gold Coast Parks website is updated with closure information during wet weather at 8am and 3pm weekdays. Visit goldcoastcity.com.au/sportshotline or phone 5581 7827.
Who do I contact for further information?
Sports clubs requiring further information should contact Council’s Parks & Recreational Services Officer on 5581 6959 during office hours.
Last Modified on 26/10/2011 10:17