The Gungahlin Eagles' push to redevelop an "unsafe" Nicholls Enclosed Oval is one step closer to realisation with the ACT government committing to improve drainage at the venue.
The Eagles use the venue for junior and senior rugby union games, and officials had grown frustrated by a playing surface they said posed safety risks to participants.
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An analysis of the oval conducted by Transport Canberra revealed compaction issues, low soil aeration and a lack of resilience in the turf which is often left seriously cut up during winter.
The rugby club launched a petition to have the field improved and now the ACT government has committed to delivering improved drainage at both Nicholls and the Higgins Neighbourhood Oval in early 2022.
Eagles officials have also been calling for female-friendly changing facilities, adamant a lack thereof is discouraging females to play rugby union.
The government has pledged to deliver female-friendly improvements to Greenway Enclosed Oval, improved LED lighting at softball grounds in Hawker and the district playing fields in Mawson and Kambah to allow for more night games and trainings, and improved cricket facilities at the Melba and Taylor neighbourhood ovals.
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Caden Helmers
My passion for journalism can be traced back to Mighty Ducks match reports and reading the Sunday paper with my old man. A love of sport turned into a passion for telling stories, breaking news and being a reliable voice.
My passion for journalism can be traced back to Mighty Ducks match reports and reading the Sunday paper with my old man. A love of sport turned into a passion for telling stories, breaking news and being a reliable voice.
