Smithton Recreation Reserve
Developing innovative drainage solutions
Tasmania

The Smithton Recreation Reserve's main oval, despite having an efficient irrigation system, faced significant drainage issues during rainfall, leading to waterlogged conditions that hampered sporting activities.

The primary challenge was integrating the new drainage system with the existing irrigation infrastructure. This required careful design to avoid conflicts between the new drainage pipes and the existing irrigation laterals, ensuring both systems could operate without interference.

Additionally, the subsoil drainage pipes had to be strategically placed to prevent vertical clashes with the irrigation pipework. To enhance surface water removal, the design included a sand carpet layer, further complicating the integration process.

SPORTENG devised a comprehensive drainage solution tailored to the specific needs and constraints of the Smithton Recreation Reserve.

The design featured a strategic alignment of subsoil drainage pipes to avoid existing irrigation laterals, with adjustments in the depth of the subsoil pipes and sand slit drainage to prevent vertical clashes with the irrigation system.

The inclusion of a sand carpet layer facilitated the removal of surface water towards the drainage infrastructure, significantly enhancing the overall drainage efficiency.

As part of broader site-wide drainage updates, a new point of discharge was established for the oval, allowing the proposed pit and pipe network to efficiently drain the oval during rain events.

The collaboration between SPORTENG and The Baker Group yielded significant improvements for the Smithton Recreation Reserve.

The new drainage system effectively mitigated waterlogging issues, ensuring the oval remained playable even during heavy rainfall.

The upgraded oval now provides a reliable, year-round playing surface for AFL, cricket, and other sports, significantly benefiting the local community and enhancing the Reserve's status as a key sporting venue.