ALL ACT Government unenclosed irrigated turf sportsgrounds will be closed from March 18 – 31 (inclusive) to undergo necessary maintenance activities, which is carried out twice yearly at the beginning and the end of the summer season.

“The summer season is always busy for sportsgrounds in the ACT, with a range of sporting groups and individuals getting great use out of our ovals over the warmer months,” Jenny Priest, Director of Sport and Recreation Services said.

“Due to the high foot traffic on our sportsgrounds over summer, we temporarily and routinely close all unenclosed ACT Government irrigated turf sportsgrounds each year to allow much needed maintenance and restorative work to be carried out, so the grounds are ready for the winter sport season.

“During this maintenance period, back nets will be removed, goal posts will be installed, and our groundskeepers also focus on getting the turf in the best possible shape for winter competition.

“Turf maintenance includes the application of fertiliser, irrigation, aeration, top dressing of worn and uneven areas and over sowing of bare or sparse areas to achieve an even turf cover.

“Maintenance is necessary to ensure our playing surfaces are properly maintained for the benefit and enjoyment of both participants and spectators, and our highest priority is ensuring our grounds remain safe and fit for purpose.

“During the maintenance period all ACT Government unenclosed irrigated turf sportsgrounds are unavailable for formal hire, and we always work closely with the schools, sports associations and clubs who use our grounds regularly to ensure disruption to playing and training schedules is kept to a minimum.”

Sportsgrounds will reopen on Friday 1 April. For more information on the status of sportsgrounds visit sport.act.gov.au.

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