Salter Oval upgrades completed

A new fence, drainage and a concrete mowing strip are just some of the recent works that have gone into Salter Oval to upgrade the area and reduce maintenance.

The works were completed in May as part of the 2021/2022 capital budget and just in time for the inaugural NRL match at the start of the month, providing a spruce up before more than 8,000 spectators congregated to watch the Bulldogs take on the Cowboys.

Council’s Sport and Recreation portfolio spokesperson Cr Vince Habermann said the pre-existing white fence around field one was replaced with a white PVC fence.

“This material has a life expectancy of 50 years and will reduce ongoing maintenance,” he said.

“While these works were being undertaken, it also provided the opportunity for drainage on the field to be upgraded.

“This will decrease the amount of surface water that ponded on the grandstand side of the field in times of heavy rain.”

Cr Habermann said the upgrades were important in enhancing Salter Oval and keeping the area in good condition for many years to come.

“This precinct is used by many different local sporting groups and associations, and so it is important that we continue to work collectively with Bundaberg Cricket and Bundaberg Rugby League to maintain the facility as best we can,” he said.

“It was great to be able to host the inaugural NRL game at the oval a few weeks ago, which was another small step towards ensuring the Bundaberg Region is placed on the map for major sporting events in Queensland.”

The works carry on from an upgrade to LED lighting earlier this year.

In January, new light structures were installed to provide a much brighter and energy efficient view of the grounds.

Thanks to their modern design, they also meet Australian standards for obtrusive light spillage to minimise impacts on nearby residents and motorists.

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