Turf renewal planned for Truemans Road soccer pitches and cricket oval

Published on 28 August 2026

Plans are underway to completely revitalise the soccer pitches/cricket oval at Truemans Road Recreation Reserve, following collaborative discussions between the Shire and representatives from the user clubs. 

The playing surfaces are currently in poor condition thanks to a flock of very enthusiastic and destructive cockatoos. In response, a comprehensive scope of works has been identified to transform the facility into a high-quality, match-ready venue that meets strict competition standards. 

The planned renewal project will include: 

• Complete surface removal: Stripping away the existing, degraded pitch surface 
• Major re-turfing: Laying approximately 15,000m² of premium, durable turf that is less attractive to cockatoos 
• Site preparation: Executing essential earthworks and precise surface leveling 
• Turf establishment: Managing critical grow-in and specialised maintenance periods 
• Ancillary works: Completing all additional field preparations required for ongoing community use.  

We are now focused on securing the necessary funding to get construction underway as soon as possible. 

Update on recent turf damage and ongoing recovery efforts 

Earlier this year, a contractor accidentally applied the wrong treatment to the fields at RJ Rowley Reserve (Rye), Olympic Park Reserve (Rosebud), David MacFarlane Reserve (Sorrento), and Emil Madsen Reserve Oval 2 (Mount Eliza) causing damage to the turf. 

Since this incident, we have been working with this contractor to remedy the situation. Unfortunately, the ovals are not yet fully recovered. We will continue to work with our contractor until the issue has been resolved and the playing fields are back in great condition.