Clubs get kick out of new synthetic pitch

Published on 15 January 2020

Mayor Frank Carbone and Councillors joined with players from Marconi Stallions to open the new field

Fairfield Mayor Frank Carbone joined players from Marconi Stallions FC on Tuesday to officially open the new $3.5 million pitch, part of the $25 million redevelopment of Fairfield Showground into a regional multicultural and sporting centre of excellence.

The Marconi Stallions then conducted the first training run on the new field.

The new pitch allows sporting clubs to train and compete in all weather conditions while providing a high quality and hard-wearing playing surface. It can also be divided to allow multiple hirers to use it at the same time and features powerful 200 lux lighting for night use.

Council will be applying to have the field accredited to FIFA standards.

So far, Marconi Stallions, Juventus Academy Sydney, Bonnyrigg White Eagles FC, Sydney United 58 FC and Mounties Wanderers Football Club have signed on to use the new field.

"This new field underscores Council's commitment to providing high-quality and diverse spaces to play sport, get fit and stay healthy with friends and family through leisurely and organised activities," Mayor Carbone said.

"Whether it is day or night, hot or cold, raining or dry, this field will be available for clubs and sporting organisations to use. Training and sporting fixtures are less likely to be impacted by the weather.

"In the next few months, players will also be able to take advantage of the new $5.1 million multipurpose amenities building being built next to the field. It will provide players and match officials the best sporting facilities this City has to offer.

The amenities building will feature a community space, kitchen/canteen, two large change rooms that can be divided into four, doctors' rooms, restrooms, match official change rooms and bathrooms, gym/training room, office space, first aid and storage.

Mayor Carbone said he looked forward to seeing the Showground continue to develop into the cultural and sporting heart of the City. Work this year will also include an international grassed sports field, an indoor multicultural and sports centre, and a new grandstand.

"The new synthetic field at Fairfield Showground is for everyone in Fairfield City to use. Whether it's a grassroots soccer club, not for profit or professional coaching academy, I want everyone to have the chance to enjoy the new facilities and the benefits they will bring to families and sporting clubs in our City," Mayor Carbone said.

Council is also spending more than $27.6 million this financial year on improvements to the City's open spaces.

In 2020, Council will also build a new all-abilities playground at neighbouring Deerbush Park, a new neighbourhood park at Villawood called Karella Park, a new wave pool and non-aquatic attraction at Aquatopia, and transform Cabravale Leisure Centre into a health and wellbeing precinct.