Elgar Park North East Oval
Designing a Multi-Use Synthetic Oval for the Community
Victoria

Elgar Park presented a layered set of constraints that needed to be resolved early to avoid downstream risk.

The site sits within an active community precinct, close to existing buildings, shared paths, and a proposed new car park. Overhead power lines, existing stormwater infrastructure, and unknown subsurface conditions added further complexity. There was also the potential for poor ground conditions and soil contamination, both of which could significantly affect constructability and cost if not properly investigated.

At the same time, the Council wanted maximum flexibility from the surface. The field needed to accommodate hockey, cricket, lacrosse, and netball use, comply with multiple governing body standards, and include training-level sports lighting, all within a tight spatial footprint.

SPORTENG led an integrated Field of Play design process that combined technical rigour with practical, buildable outcomes.

We undertook detailed geotechnical investigations to verify ground conditions and inform pavement design, while also preparing contamination assessments to manage environmental risk early. This allowed the Council to make informed decisions before construction, rather than reacting to surprises on site.

On the surface side, we developed and documented a multi-purpose synthetic system capable of supporting hockey, netball, lacrosse, cricket and other community uses. We prepared a technical paper comparing synthetic surface options, outlining lifecycle costs, performance characteristics, and maintenance considerations to clearly explain the trade-offs.

SPORTENG also worked with HKS (Harris Kmon Solutions) in delivering the full sports lighting design, including electrical documentation and structural design and certification for Australian-made light poles and footings. Close coordination with power authorities and adjacent consultants ensured overhead services, car park interfaces and shared paths were safely integrated into the final layout.

To support delivery, we provided tender documentation and analysis, and construction phase services. This included responding to RFIs, reviewing shop drawings, attending witness point inspections, and issuing final design compliance certification.

Throughout the project, we also worked with the Council to explore future-focused opportunities, including spectator viewing mounds formed from excess excavated material and adaptable layouts that increase community use without increasing footprint.

Elgar Park North East Oval is on track to become a resilient, flexible community sports facility that maximises participation while minimising long-term maintenance risk.

By addressing ground conditions, services coordination and multi-sport compliance early, the project avoided costly redesigns and construction delays. Council gained a clearly documented, tender-ready design that gave contractors confidence and improved overall delivery.

Most importantly, the upgraded Field of Play will support year-round sport for local clubs and casual users alike, delivering a facility that works hard for the community and stands up to intensive use over time.