As everyone knows, the water restrictions in Victoria are having an effect on sports programs. Councils are monitoring the condition of playing surfaces and are in regular contact with clubs and football associations to achieve the best possible outcome for sports in 2007.
At this stage the football associations are planning to run a full season fixture with a modified pre-season. Reducing the pre-season is designed to preserve the grounds for the season proper.
The VAFA website www.vafa.com.au has a good article detailing their approach for the 2007 season.
On January 31st, our president and secretary attended a meeting addressing the impact of water restrictions on sports grounds. The meeting was convened by the City of Kingston, the Bayside City Council and the City of Port Phillip. A number of representatives from the councils attended along with a turf consultant, a representative from South East Water, the football operations manager from the VAFA and a representative from the Civic Mutual Plus insurance group which represents many councils.
The underlying message was positive:
– The weather predictions for the coming quarter are for increasing rainfall and lower than average temperatures.
– Councils are working with clubs and associations to minimise wear on the playing surfaces.
– The VAFA is planning to run a full season competition, but will review the situation after March 1st.
– Provided the proper standard of care is undertaken by clubs and councils there is no need for concern about additional risk.
– If the water situation deteriorates and stage 4 water restrictions are required, plans will be made to preserve as much of the season as possible.
A representative from the City of Greater Geelong spoke about the impact that Stage 4 water restrictions had on their programs last year. The clear message was that despite additional cost, more planning and a reduced fixture the show did go on.
For our part, the committee has been looking at what options we have to access alternate water supplies to keep the grounds in a playable condition.
As each ground requires 800,000 litres of water per week for proper maintenance, the options have clear drawbacks:
Installing tanks: Each 40,000 litre tank costs over $5000 to install and then some rain to keep it full.
Carting water: Each 40,000 litre water tanker load costs $500. And if the tanker is driven onto the playing surface the ground is compacted and it absorbs less water.
Bore water: This is the one practical option that is being explored for the Mentone Reserve. An old bore may be re-opened, but even if the bore can be tapped the suitability of the water needs to be tested before it can be used.
So keep praying for rain and for a succesful season in 2007.