Narrabeen Athletics Track
Strengthening flood resilience for a premier athletics venue
New South Wales

Flooding was the major challenge at Narrabeen. The existing athletics track had been repeatedly inundated, leading to damage in the surface and underlying layers. Beyond affecting performance and safety, this left the venue vulnerable to recurring closures and costly repairs.

The task was not as simple as raising the track above the flood levels. Local water and land authorities often prohibit this solution, as it can worsen flooding in surrounding areas. That meant SPORTENG needed to develop innovative design alternatives that balanced compliance, flood mitigation, and long-term durability.

At the same time, the project needed to deliver accurate costings and practical pathways to redevelopment, helping the client make informed decisions while managing budgets and timelines.

SPORTENG approached the project with a comprehensive site assessment, reviewing flood certificates, geotechnical reports, surveys, and existing infrastructure. From there, we developed a suite of concept options, each addressing the flood challenge in a different way.

These options included elevating the track, building a protective bund around it, relocating the facility to higher ground within the site, improving the drainage and infield design, and reconfiguring the throwing event areas to create a detention basin. Each option was carefully evaluated against performance, compliance, risk, and cost.

Recognising that raising the track might not be permissible, SPORTENG drew on our experience with other flood-prone tracks. We placed a strong focus on engineered drainage improvements and highly porous surface systems that could rapidly shed and release water. This approach ensures the track remains stable, minimises waterlogging, and reduces the likelihood of surface bubbling after heavy rain.

Throughout the process, we worked closely with stakeholders, including the NSW Office of Sport, town planning consultants, and flood engineers, to ensure each solution aligned with regulatory requirements and community needs.

By September 2024, SPORTENG delivered detailed concept designs and costings for multiple redevelopment pathways. These designs gave the NSW Office of Sport clear, evidence-based options for repairing and upgrading the track, each tailored to address the flooding risks specific to Narrabeen.

Member for Pittwater Jacqui Scruby said the closure of the track two years ago had a devastating impact on the Pittwater community.

“The closure of the track was a huge loss to our community. Since being elected, I’ve worked alongside Michael Regan to push for this vital upgrade. I’m proud we’ve delivered this outcome for our athletes, schools and sporting clubs. This track is more than infrastructure, it’s where young people train, compete and grow. I look forward to seeing it back in action,” said Ms Scruby.

Source: Finish line in sight for athletes

The project has laid the groundwork for a resilient athletics facility that can better withstand the impacts of extreme weather. By combining smart drainage solutions with robust design and careful cost planning, SPORTENG has helped ensure that the Sydney Academy of Sport continues to serve as a premier training and competition venue: reliable, safe, and ready for the future.

NSW Minister for Sport Stephen Kamper said the athletics track at the Sydney Academy of Sport and Recreation was key sporting infrastructure:

“The Sydney Academy of Sport athletics track is more than just a facility. It’s a key piece of infrastructure that supports athletes at every level, from grassroots to elite. The new facility of world-class standard ensures NSW continues to lead the way in sporting excellence. The closure of the track in 2023 caused real disruption and uncertainty, so I’m pleased the Minns Labor Government is delivering the investment needed to bring this vital facility back to life. I look forward to turning the first sod on construction of the new track with the Member for Pittwater Jacqui Scruby, and Member for Wakehurst, Michael Regan, who have been such strong and vocal advocates for this project,” said Minister Kamper.

Source: Finish line in sight for athletes