Location :

Coburg North, VIC

Client :

Merri-bek City Council

Year :

2023-2024

Sector :

Natural Turf | Soccer

Hosken Reserve, located in Melbourne, has recently undergone a major redevelopment, with a focus on enhancing its soccer field.

SPORTENG was engaged by Merri-Bek City Council to conduct a peer review of the design documentation for the proposed redevelopment.

As part of our involvement, SPORTENG provided expert technical input, ensuring that the final design would meet high standards for creating a top-tier soccer field with natural turf.

THE CHALLENGE

The redevelopment of the soccer pitch at Hosken Reserve was fraught with obstacles. Surrounding properties, limited available space, existing infrastructure, and variable surface contours all presented significant constraints.

 

Compounding these challenges, asbestos contamination was uncovered in numerous locations during the initial earthworks.

This discovery posed a critical decision: either remove the asbestos at a significant cost to the client or adapt the design to avoid costly remediation.

THE SOLUTION

SPORTENG collaborated with qualified specialists and the client to develop an effective asbestos management plan. Leveraging their deep understanding of sports field design, SPORTENG proposed a solution to minimise asbestos-related disruption and costs.

The pitch was redesigned with an elevated finished surface and a slight repositioning, effectively reducing direct interaction with contaminated areas.

This innovative approach balanced compliance with safety standards and alignment with the client’s goals.

 

SPORTENG’s superintendent services played a crucial role in ensuring the smooth execution of the project. Our superintendent team provided hands-on oversight during the construction phase, offering practical solutions to any on-site challenges.

From coordinating contractors to overseeing quality control and ensuring that the design specifications were adhered to, our superintendent services helped keep the project on track and delivered a high-quality soccer field. Their proactive approach to managing and resolving issues on-site was key to maintaining the timeline and quality of the redevelopment.

THE RESULTS

Thanks to SPORTENG’s superintendent expertise and strategic redesign, the Hosken Reserve project achieved its objectives:

  • Comprehensive compliance with the asbestos management plan.
  • Cost minimisation by avoiding expensive asbestos removal.
  • Timely delivery of a high-quality soccer pitch and supporting infrastructure tailored to the client’s specifications.

 

This project exemplifies SPORTENG’s ability to navigate complex challenges, delivering innovative, cost-effective solutions that prioritize client satisfaction and safety.

Covered grandstand next to natural turf soccer sports field

Covered grandstand next to natural turf soccer Field of Play

Natural turf sports field with fencing on the left side

Natural turf soccer Field of Play at Hosken Reserve

Natural turf sports field with fencing on both sides
Natural turf soccer Field of Play at Hosken Reserve
Woodden and metallic bench in front of a natural turf sports field

Irrigation-enclosed furniture that houses irrigation systems while also serving as spectator furniture. 

People standing in circle in front of a sport building listening to a speach

Hosken Reserve Grand Opening