Major works at Apex Oval to install a 10 megalitre underground storage reservoir, irrigation system and international standard playing field is progressing well and on track for completion by 30 September 2012.
The next round of public inspections will be held at Apex Oval on Thursday, 12 July 2012 between 7am and 9am – with breakfast included.
Dubbo Mayor Cr Mathew Dickerson said the major project was now in its final stages.
“The installation of the 10 megalitre underground stormwater harvesting system has been completed, with the new playing surface expected to be laid at Apex Oval in early September - ready for play in the 2013 winter season,’’ he said.
When operational, the Apex Oval Stormwater Harvesting System will see an underground water reservoir capture almost 40 megalitres of stormwater annually – alleviating pressure on the Macquarie River and the City’s potable water supply.
The project will service 49 per cent of the irrigation demand at the popular East Dubbo sporting complex and Apex Oval is being resurfaced with an all-weather, sand-based playing field.
“Council has already begun pitching the venue to high level sporting organisations and events. This week, in partnership with Group XI, Council submitted a bid to host next year’s coveted Country v City Origin Rugby League match,’’ Cr Dickerson said.
“The new playing surface will be the perfect platform for a game of this magnitude. The outstanding amenities and playing field at Apex together with the breadth of accommodation and visitor appeal of the City should make Country Rugby League’s decision easy.’’
Dubbo City Council received notification in October 2010 that the estimated $11.6M initiative had received support from the Australian government’s Water for the Future Program, attracting Council’s largest grant of $4.5 million.
“Council has already conducted three rounds of public inspections since construction began in September 2011. They’re a great opportunity for anyone interested in this environmental initiative, or to learn how the new playing surface will benefit sport in Dubbo and the region,’’ Cr Dickerson said.
“Next week’s viewings will be less formal than previous events, with people encouraged to drop in between 7am and 9am. We’ll also be offering bacon and egg rolls, and coffee for anyone with an interest in this project.’’
MEDIA CONTACT:
Dubbo Mayor Cr Mathew Dickerson, phone 6801 4000 or 0418 639 053.
