What we measure
We regularly assess all sportsgrounds we manage and assign one of 5 condition ratings from ‘excellent’ to ‘extremely poor’.
These ratings consider factors such as:
- percentage of turf cover
- signs of wear and turf loss
- inability to mow
- saturation of soil
- presence of water underfoot
- unevenness of the ground
- presence of heavy mud areas.
When we restrict access
If sportsground conditions decline to an average rating, we’ll put training restrictions in place. We may also need to cancel or restrict use by schools and casual bookings to limit further damage to the ground surface.
A significant rain event can lead to ground conditions that we rate as poor. In this event, we’ll cancel training sessions, school and casual bookings until wet conditions pass so that use on match days can continue.
When we close sportsgrounds
We will close sportsgrounds if ground conditions are rated as extremely poor.
This decision is made with player safety in mind and to avoid significant damage that could interfere with ongoing community use in the coming weeks and months.
Before any closures on a Monday to Thursday, we endeavour to communicate with sports clubs 24 hours in advance.
Before a match day closure on Friday to Sunday, we’ll communicate this by the Wednesday prior based on the current forecast and predicted ground conditions.
When sportsgrounds are closed, we’ll work with sports clubs to make alternative arrangements for matches where possible.
More information
You can find out more information about a particular sportsground in Boroondara by contacting the
Sport and Recreation Team on 03 9278 4797 or email [email protected].
You might also be interested in our mowing schedule and how this is impacted by wet weather. Find out more on our grass maintenance page.