Final Yack Sports Park MP - Shire of Indigo · 2 2 /1 07 YACKANDANDAH SPORTS PARK MASTER PLAN 1...

Y a c k a n d a n d a h

S p o r t s P a r k

M a s t e r P l a n 3V O L U M E

S

SS S SSS

INDIGOS H I R E

C O U N C I L

Y A C K A N D A N D A H Y A C K A N D A N D A H Y A C K A N D A N D A H Y A C K A N D A N D A H Y A C K A N D A N D A H Y A C K A N D A N D A H Y A C K A N D A N D A H Y A C K A N D A N D A H Y A C K A N D A N D A H Y A C K A N D A N D A H Y A C K A N D A N D A H Y A C K A N D A N D A H Y A C K A ND A N D A H Y A C K A Y A C K A N D A N D A H Y A

22/11/07

YACKANDANDAH SPORTS PARK MASTER PLAN 1

About this document

This document is the Master Plan for the Yackandandah Sports Park. It has been prepared by @leisure, to help guide the future strategic development of the site.

Specialist technical advice has been provided by, Mary Jeavons Landscape Architects (site and landscape analysis) and Ecowise Environmental (water supply and usage analysis and advice).

Acknowledgements

@leisure wishes to acknowledge the support and assistance provided on this project by:

the Project Manager, Kevin Poyner (representing the Yackandandah Sports Park Committee of Management)

David Koren, Recreation and Community Development Coordinator, Indigo Shire Council

the Project Steering Committee

the Yackandandah Sports Park Committee of Management

Indigo Shire staff interviewed for this project

project stakeholders and user groups interviewed for this project

people who attended the community forum

people who provided written submissions.

Sport and Recreation Victoria (SRV), the Indigo Shire Council and the Yackandandah Community Development Co. (YCDCo) sponsored this project.

Disclaimer: The maps provided in this plan are not for construction purposes.

1st Floor, 717 Nicholson Street CARLTON NORTH VIC 3054

Tel (03) 9387 7337 e-mail: [email protected]

Rear 534 Mt Alexander Road Ascot Vale VIC 3032 Ph. (03) 9326 1662

Email: [email protected]

22/11/07


Table of contents

1. INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................3 1.1 Project background.............................................................................................3 1.2 Planning context .................................................................................................4 1.3 Township context................................................................................................4

2. THE MASTER PLAN .....................................................................................6 2.1 Goal and vision ...................................................................................................6 2.2 Development principles......................................................................................6 2.3 Priorities ..............................................................................................................7 2.4 Key elements of the plan ...................................................................................9

3. THE SITE ......................................................................................................14 3.1 Location .............................................................................................................14 3.2 Ownership and zoning .....................................................................................14 3.3 Management .....................................................................................................16 3.4 Facilities and structures ...................................................................................16 3.5 Multi-purpose building infrastructure ...............................................................17

4. SPORTS PARK USE AND FUTURE DEMAND ........................................18 4.1 Existing Sports Park users...............................................................................18 4.2 Future identified uses .......................................................................................20 4.3 Other uses considered .....................................................................................22 4.4 Likely demand for indoor sporting activities ...................................................22

5. SITE ISSUES AND ANALYSIS...................................................................25 5.1 Site zoning ........................................................................................................25 5.2 Landscape analysis ..........................................................................................27 5.3 Facilities and structures ...................................................................................33 5.4 Multi-purpose indoor sports court....................................................................36 5.5 Specialised sports surfaces .............................................................................38 5.7 Water use and supply.......................................................................................40 5.8 Management .....................................................................................................42

6. APPENDICES

Appendix 1: Indigo Recreation Plan Survey Findings (2006) ...............................44 Appendix 2: Yackandandah Sports Park Community Forum ...............................46 Appendix 3: Community submissions ....................................................................50 Appendix 4: Ecowise Environmental Report...........................................................51

22/11/07


1. Introduction

1.1 Project background

The Yackandandah Sports Park is a major sporting complex within the Indigo Shire that provides a range of local, district and regional sporting opportunities for the Indigo community.

This project was initiated by key user groups with support from the Indigo Shire Council and Sport and Recreation Victoria (SRV). The aim of the project is to develop a master plan that guides the future development of the site. This Master Plan includes assessment of sporting opportunities available at the Sports Park and identifies demand for future activities. Setting a strategic direction for ongoing capital development, and site and facility management are also key objectives of the Master Plan.

Aim

The keys aims of the project were to:

develop recommendations to enhance the site’s physical features and infrastructure

research potential new - and enhance existing - usage opportunities at the Sports Park

provide recommendations regarding the protection of the local environmental character and public amenity, as well as the efficient use of water resources.

Strategy drivers

Key drivers of this strategy were:

a growing demand for new experiences and activities

the need to better utilise existing facilities

the desire to enhance the quality of existing infrastructure

limited available resources to further develop existing facilities

competing shire-wide demands for Council resources.

Project methodology

The following tasks were undertaken as part of this project:

reviewed existing Council and township strategies

interviewed relevant Council Officers, Committee of Management representatives, sporting clubs, Sports Park user groups and schools

facilitated a community workshop with local residents

conducted detailed analysis of Yackandandah township responses to Council’s Recreation Plan Community Survey (conducted in November 2006)

inspected the study area and prepared an analysis of the site, the landscape amenity and current water use and supply practices

identified and presented key issues and preliminary directions to the Project Steering Committee

prepared a Draft Master Report for stakeholder consideration.

22/11/07


1.2 Planning context

Municipal Strategic Statement (MSS)

Council’s MSS provides some clear direction regarding protection of the local environment and Shire water resources. Council wish to encourage land uses that are environmentally and ecologically sustainable. Council also aims to protect natural resource bases of soil, waterways and wetlands, remnant vegetation and threatened flora and fauna.

Conducting an analysis of water use and supply, as well as preparing recommendations on landscape amenity improvement and efficiencies in future water usage are key elements of this Master Plan.

Indigo Shire Planning Scheme

There is no specific reference to the Yackandandah Sports Park under the Indigo Shire Planning Scheme or in the Shire’s Municipal Strategic Statement (MSS).

Council Plan 2006-2010

The most relevant direction of the Indigo Shire Council Plan 2006-2010 regarding the improvement of the Yackandandah Sports Park is ‘facilitating the provision of a range of services to meet the needs of the community.’ Council support for the implementation of this Plan and its recommendations will assist to achieve this objective.

Planning Scheme Review 2006/07: Discussion Document

Council’s Planning Scheme Review 2006/07: Discussion Document identifies some preliminary strategies regarding the future development of the Yackandandah township. While no specific reference is made to the Sports Park, the ‘establishment of a quality walking/cycling track between Yackandandah and Beechworth’ is highlighted as a key directive. The development of this track is likely to include connection with the Sports Park, with facilities potentially serving as a track/trail hub for users.

Yackandandah Sports Park Management Plan

The Sports Park Management Plan 2006-2010 identifies some key priorities and directions for the site, including:

construction and fit-out of a multi-purpose indoor sports hall, and associated change and toilet amenities

completion of the cricket clubrooms / function room and its main entry to better serve as a community event venue

the upgrade to landscape amenity, drainage, vehicle access, parking and circulation areas.

1.3 Township context

Yackandandah is 295km north east of Melbourne, situated at the intersection of the Wodonga-Dederang and Yackandandah Roads. Yackandandah is conveniently located between its nearest major townships of Beechworth (18km) and Wodonga (29km).

The town retains a wealth of its Victorian architecture, and picturesque tree lined streets. Yackandandah offers an environment that is unique for its scenery and diversity of attractions, with many buildings, sites, trees and its main retail precinct heritage listed. The township also hosts many regionally significant arts and cultural events, and offers regionally significant sporting and recreation opportunities for its residents and visitors.

In 2006, Yackandandah had a township population of 663 people (44% male and 56% female). The population increased by 5.4% from 2001 (an additional 34 people). Yackandandah’s 2006 population equates to an estimated 4.5% of shire-wide residents, up from 4.2% in 2001.

Anecdotal evidence suggests there has been a significant growth in the population of Yackandandah in the last few years.

22/11/07


An estimated 27% of the Yackandandah population consists of young people aged 0 to 24 years. Yackandandah also has a smaller proportion of adults aged 25 to 54 than for the Shire as a whole (36% compared with 40%) and a larger proportion of people aged 65 years and older (24% compared with 15%).

Council’s Planning Scheme Review 2006/07: Discussion Document provides projected population growth scenario for the Shire’s main townships. Yackandandah’s population is projected to grow to somewhere between 1,478 and 2,533 residents by 2025, at least doubling the 2006 population. This population growth over the next 15-20 years is expected to increase the demand for sport and recreation activities and facilities within the township, including those conducted at the Sports Park.

The catchment for the sports park is considerably larger then Yackandandah due to the quality of the ground and the picturesque nature of its setting, as well as the reputation of the clubs. Users of the park include residents of Albury and Wodonga.

Facilities in Yackandandah

A range of sport, recreation and community facilities accessible to local residents in Yackandandah include the following:

Butson Park

Butson Park is home to the Yackandandah Football / Netball Club during the winter season, with lower grade senior and junior cricket played there during summer. It provides an oval playing field, netball court and a range of pavilion and amenity buildings.1

1 Butson Park user groups have proposed to replace their clubroom facilities with a larger ‘function style’ centre. However, at the time of writing, information provided through consultation identified that key user groups would not be pursuing a development of this nature, choosing to focus on improving existing facilities to better cater for current users/uses.

Other outdoor sport facilities

Yackandandah has a range of sporting facilities, most of which are unlikely to impact on recommendations provided within the Master Plan. Facilities include the Yackandandah; Swimming Pool, Bowls Club, Golf Club and Skate Park.

Parkland

Yackandandah also has two major open space parklands: Soldiers Memorial Gardens and Sir Isaac Isaac’s Park (with children’s playground), both of which are situated on the town’s main through road (High Street).

Indoor community recreation facilities

There are two main community buildings in the township that host community functions and events. The Public Hall can seat a large number of people for functions (it also provides a commercial kitchen), and acts as the local cinema.

Yackandandah’s Senior Citizens Centre provides a catering size kitchen and can seat approximately 100 people in the open hall area. The Centre also offers social and recreation activities (eg. indoor bowls) for members and local residents.

The Court House offers meeting and function space for approximately 70 people and includes a kitchenette facility.

There are also a number of other historical buildings providing arts and cultural attractions throughout Yackandandah.

22/11/07


2. THE MASTER PLAN

2.1 Goal and vision

The 2006-2010 Yackandandah Sports Park Management Plan identifies a shared goal of the Sports Park Management Committee and Sports Park Action Group.

“To develop the sport and recreational facilities, including the indoor multi purpose sports court area, community events space, function room facilities and entrance, traffic and parking and landscape surrounds, at the Sports Park commencing in 2008”.

2.2 Development principles

In determining future priorities at the Sports Park, the following principles should guide Master Plan implementation.

Continue to provide for a wide range of interests, and support development and improvements that reinforce the site as a community recreation facility.

Ensure future site improvements support the ongoing development of recreational activities already based on the site and do not erode key characteristics of the Park.

Ensure future uses, activities and infrastructure are all dependent on a ‘Sports Park’ location ie large open space, with high visible quality:

• one node for consolidated indoor facilities, and

• a focus on sport.

Retain the natural landscape character of the site with any future development.

Restrict the level of building development and consolidate (where possible) the number of individual building footprints so as not to impact on the scenic qualities of the site, enhance facility viability and reduce the cost of maintenance.

Ensure any new infrastructure development enhances the diversity of facilities provided and avoids duplication within the Yackandandah township.

Ensure any new or proposed infrastructure is accessible for people with a disability.

Promotes sharing facilities and infrastructure between user groups.

22/11/07


2.3 Priorities

The key priorities for development and management of the sports park were developed through stakeholder consultation, supported by demand assessment and site observations and analysis.

Priorities for facility development

1. Create accessible public toilets for general parks users.

2. Complete all unfinished buildings to ensure new activities can be catered for.

3. Provide amenities that support activity growth and that help to generate additional financial resources for ongoing maintenance and improvement.

4. Ensure the design of all future facilities provide accessible features and elements.

5. Continue to improve landscape amenity and pedestrian circulation around buildings and create a sense of arrival

6. Undertake required improvements to entrance and driveways.

7. Improve the overall level of signage on site.

Priorities for landscape improvement

1. Continue to improve the landscape amenity of all areas including:

• Replacement and enhancement of tree planting to reinforce a strong coherent landscape theme around playing surfaces and along creeks and driveways, and

• Enhancement of landscape design of non-sports areas

2. Retain and maintain the non-sports areas of The Park.

3. Clean-up, and then continue to maintain the wetland area.

4. Implement more efficient water use and recycling options.

Priorities for Sports Park management

1. Develop a clear management structure for new major facilities, and user agreements (to address cost of use, maintenance responsibilities, multi purpose indoor sports court scheduling, collecting of monies, priority of use, sharing).

2. Provide assurance of long-term use for tenant clubs following any financial investment.

3. Ensure all facilities promote shared use and offer multiple use / activity opportunities.

Master Plan directions have been prepared for priority implementation over the next five to ten years (2007-2011 and onwards to 2016). Priorities are based on financial and resource commitments required, as well as the overall benefit each direction will provide the Sports Park, its various user groups and the residents of Yackandandah.

In general terms, the short, medium and long-term priorities identified will also require short, medium and long-term implementation. A suggested timeline guide for implementation is:

SHORT: action within 24 months

MEDIUM: action between years 3 and 5

LONG: action between years 6 and 10.

It should be acknowledged that priorities might change as the availability of funding changes. The presentation of new or unknown opportunities, or changes in community and club demands, can also affect priorities.

Actions recommended should be reviewed annually to ensure they continue to meet the priority needs of the Sports Park.

YACKANDANDAH SPORTS PARKMaster Plan

Disclaimer: this master plan is indicative only and not for construction purposes

Aerial image courtesy of Google Earth

NDrawn by: SBDate: August 2007Revision: draft1

0 50 150m

2

1

3

WetlandUndertake weed removal and reinstate wetland

Consider development of a boardwalk and interpretive signage

LegendYackandandah Creek

Existing pathways

Proposed pathways

Improve and/or grade existing roadway

Proposed roadway

Improved directional signage (simple and appropriate system for bush setting)

Bush backdrop planting behind the cricket nets

New spectacular feature Eucalyptus

New large trees to buffer wind and weather, consider Eucalyptus

New rows of small Eucalyptus

Existing exotic tree

Floodlighting

Area needs detailed design

1

3

Water reuse and recyclingCreate a water harvesting system on main building roof

Install a 250kL rainwater tank to collect water off the main building roof, and direct excess and overflow rain water to the wetland area

Convert all taps and flushing cisterns to water saving fixtures

Outdoor sports courtsAssess tennis/netball court floodlighting

Replace floodlights and towers to Australian Standards at the end of their useful life

Resurface tennis courts when required

Consider the provision of an additional tennis court in the long term

Define grassed area west of the tennis courts as a car parking area and prevent through vehicle access in the short term

Reconfigure entry road south of tennis and netball courts to include defined parking spaces

Redesign cricket club room entry and parking area

A

B

C

A

B

C

Indoor Sports Court

Cricket Club

Multi-purpose Hall

Tennis courts

Cricket nets

Open grass

Riding Arena

Oval

Riding storage

Soccer field(90x45m)

Main entry

Wetland

Car parking

Improve landscape around existing BBQ area

Provide two accessible picnic areas with tables, shelters, shade trees and paths

Park furnitureRebuild accessible viewing platform (sympathetic to slightly rustic style, providing good view over oval) and integrate with pedestrian network

Formalise creek crossing desire line

Create a pedestrian only link between the main cricket club room and car park area, to the tennis courts

Improve footpath access and street lighting along Wellsford Street

Make a pedestrian entry route via the tennis court entry

Develop an ‘easier’ loop walking path (wide and accessible) from oval, behind equestrian arean, to creek, back to tennis courts and link back into town

Access and circulation

4

4

Vegetation and planting themesEstablish a long-term program to remove weed species (Poplar, Ash, Willow etc) from creek

Remove dead, damaged or senescing pine trees

Continue planting around oval and park.Plant indigenous. Keep exotic trees for definition of ovals and for features, and restrict exotic trees to non-invasive species (especially close to the creek)

Main entry needs a strong statement, new feature Eucalyptus trees proposed

Establish large trees along western boundary of riding arena to define end of reserve and buffer from wind and adverse weather. Consider Eucalyptus species

Establish new backdrop planting along the southern boundary of the oval to the main entry

Bush backdrop to hillside (behind cricket nets) could benefit from a strong edge planting of large mature trees

Picnic area

2

Riding arenasConsider the development of a new combined riding club pavilion and winter tenant storage area

Extend the all-weather riding area west 3 metres

Retain grassed area north of riding arena for secondary riding arena

Negotiate long term acquisition or lease of adjacent property. Develop a horse float / trailer parking area

Buildings and pavilionsRedesign buffer zone between building and oval, provide shelter and shade

Consider conversion of the tennis tea pavilion into accessible public toilets and shelter

Create a main entry, reception and viewing area on the north eastern side of the existing building to serve the indoor sports court

Provide an accessible entry and second storey access to the cricket club room building

Redevelop the ground floor of the cricket club rooms to provide storage, canteen/kiosk servery and male/female toilets and change rooms

Install heating / cooling to the multi-purpose hall/indoor sports court

Consider alternative uses for the Scout’s storage shed (eg. tractor storage)

Main playing fieldEnsure main playing field accommodates two 90 x 45m soccer fields

Install additional spectator seating around playing field

Provide a minimum of 2 floodlights to enable a winter sport to train

22/11/07


2.4 Key elements of the plan

The key elements of the Master Plan are as follows:

1. Continue to develop the indoor sports court at the Reserve for basketball and social sports such as netball.

2. Seek to secure additional land for the reserve in the west to connect better to public land for equestrian and trail based uses as well as provide better for parking of floats.

3. Reline parking, vehicle access ways to serve the indoor and outdoor sporting uses and provide better arrival and circulation space around buildings. Develop a network of paths around the reserve.

4. Continue to enhance the landscape amenity of the reserve, providing a strong theme for tree planting, shade and high amenity quality value for sports and casual users. Improve the wetland area.

5. Increase the functionality and accessibility of buildings, for a range of sports and fitness activities, but consolidating buildings where possible into existing building envelopes.

6. Expand the equestrian arena; develop a small pavilion/shelter and supporting parking.

7. Introduce a winter sport (2 soccer playing areas on either side of the cricket). Provide training lights. Complete the clubrooms as a shared venue for tennis, cricket, and any winter sport or indoor sports court tenant

8. Develop water reclamation and recycling systems for use in the buildings and on the playing surfaces.

2.5 Master Plan Directions

The Master Plan includes the following key aspects and directions.

MASTER PLAN DIRECTIONS PRIORITY

Site zoning and ownership

1. Rezone the site’s land parcels marked A, B, C and D (on Figure 1) to PPRZ.

SHORT

2. Consider the rezoning of the Yackandandah Creek corridor land (west of Dederang Road) to PCRZ.

MEDIUM

3. Negotiate the purchase, acquisition or long-term lease of the neighbouring private land or part of (marked as parcel E on Figure 1) for possible Sports Park expansion.

SHORT

Vegetation

4. Work with Council and DSE to remove any dead, broken or senescing pine trees from the site.

SHORT

5. Provide new site entry planting featuring an avenue of Eucalyptus species.

MEDIUM

6. Boundary Planting: Provide enhanced bush backdrop indigenous planting to the hillside (behind cricket practice wickets, and along the southern site boundary that borders Crown Land. Plant a row of large trees (consider Eucalyptus species) along the southwestern boundary of the equestrian area to provide a buffer from wind and weather.

MEDIUM

7. Continue to provide exotic trees for definition of ovals and avenues, shade and visual amenity around the oval and feature planting in picnic areas. Use indigenous species in all other locations.

LONG

22/11/07



8. Replant suitable trees between the oval and indoor sports court to protect the building and enhance spectator amenity.

SHORT

9. Work with Council and local Landcare agency and schools (or similar) to establish a long-term weed (eg Poplar, Willow, Ash) removal program for the Yackandandah Creek, and the wetland.

MEDIUM

Wetland

10. Work with Council and local Landcare agency (or similar) to establish a wetland remediation program.

MEDIUM

11. Consider the provision of a low-scale boardwalk and interpretive signage to enhance visitor use and school / environmental education of the wetland.

LONG

Vehicle parking

12. Upgrade and redesign car-parking area at the front of the main cricket clubrooms entry.

SHORT

13. Construct barriers to prevent vehicle access to the grassed recreation area between tennis courts / pavilion and the Yackandandah Creek.

Define car spaces in the area immediately west of the tennis court enclosure fencing (refer to Action 45).

SHORT

14. Reconfigure existing tennis court car parking area to provide defined parking spaces.

Any redesign or reconfiguration should be conducted in conjunction with the development of the proposed indoor sports court to better service a main entry area.

MEDIUM

15. Develop a horse float / vehicle parking area (west of the area should private land become available (marked as E on Figure 1) to better separate large vehicle movement from pedestrians and horses.

LONG



16. Improve directional signage at both the Sports Park entries and at key locations (as marked on Master Plan).

SHORT

17. Improve and/or grade all internal roadways on the site. SHORT

18. Work with Council to improve access and street lighting to the Sports Park via footpath along Wellsford Street, and directional signage from the Wodonga-Yackandandah Road.

SHORT

19. Create a more defined and accessible pedestrian and circuit path system around and throughout the site, connecting key activity areas with the Yackandandah Creek corridor trail (ie. Gorge Walk).

MEDIUM

20. Formalise the existing desire line that crosses the Yackandandah Creek (north-west of the Sports Park) into a designated creek crossing, and further connecting into the Sports Park trail network.

MEDIUM

21. Create a pedestrian only link between the main cricket clubroom car park to the tennis courts and any future indoor sports centre entry.

Any path construction should be in conjunction with the development of the proposed multi purpose indoor sports court to better connect to the main entry area.

LONG

22. Extend the existing internal roadway along the southern site boundary to connect with any new horse float / vehicle car park developed on private land as part of Action 7.

LONG

23. Continue to use existing gated entries / exits around internal roadways to control horse and vehicle movements, particularly while a range of different activities are being undertaken at the one time.

ONGOING

22/11/07



Buildings and pavilions

24. Identify better shared use of the multi purpose scout hall for sports fitness activities and community gym. Ensure uses of the multi-purpose hall have access to the storage shed.

SHORT

25. Regrade the area abutting the western wall of the indoor sports centre, facing the oval. Replace trees with suitable species and provide seating for spectators.

SHORT

26. Relocate the tractor storage under the cricket clubroom to an alternative location (for safety reasons).

SHORT

27. Consider the conversion of the tennis tea pavilion into a public toilet and shelter for court users, and encourage use of the cricket clubrooms by the tennis club, and any winter sport.

MEDIUM

28. Provide an accessible entry and second storey access to cricket club room building, in association with further building works proposed for the multi purpose indoor sports court. Landscape the space around the entry to the clubrooms to create a sense of arrival, especially for people using the function room.

MEDIUM

29. Redevelop the ground floor of the cricket clubroom building to include; a small canteen / kiosk with external servery, male and female change rooms and toilets (to serve indoor and outdoor sports courts and playing field), and an accessible shower / toilet and storage areas.

Future consideration could be given to providing a second set of change facilities designated for outdoor sports, as well as an officials change area and first-aid room (if required).

MEDIUM

30. Consider the development of a new small combined riding club pavilion (with toilets and storage) and winter tenant storage area.

LONG


Indoor sports court

31. Prepare a detailed design of the multi purpose indoor sport court and a business case and apply for funding to develop the multi purpose indoor sport court as a basketball court, and for social soccer and netball use.

Refer to report section 5.4 for detailed recommendations regarding indoor sports court requirements.

SHORT

32. In conjunction with development of the multi purpose indoor sport court, preferably create a main entry, reception and viewing area on the eastern side of the existing building structure – facing the tennis courts or alternatively, through the change rooms and kiosk at the southern side.

MEDIUM

Park furniture

33. Upgrade the existing BBQ area to provide a more accessible, and improved and more welcoming landscape.

SHORT

34. Provide an accessible picnic area between the cricket practice wickets and the cricket club pavilion building (under the shade of existing trees).

MEDIUM

35. Install additional spectator seating around the playing field and on the redesigned area west of the indoor sports court building

MEDIUM

36. Rebuild the viewing platform on the western side of the playing field and integrate it with the pedestrian path network.

LONG

Riding arena(s)

37. Support the replacement and upgrading of the all weather riding arena surface and associated drainage, and extend the riding arena 3m towards the west.

SHORT

22/11/07



38. With the development of a new arena, prevent large vehicle access to the grassed equestrian area and retain as a secondary riding arena.

SHORT

Main playing field

39. Encourage the use of the playing field for a winter sport (soccer in the short term). Protect the wicket from damage by a winter sport, and monitor the condition of the playing field for training and play accordingly.

SHORT

40. Monitor the condition of the playing surface following the first soccer (or winter sport) season to evaluate playing field drainage requirements.

SHORT

41. Install training lights around the main playing field to support winter sport training activities using portable goals.

LONG

Outdoor sports courts

42. Assess the quality of tennis / netball court lighting, their level of output and energy usage, as well as the overall safety of lighting towers..

SHORT

43. Replace floodlights and light towers to Australian Standard at the end of their useful life. Address lighting on combined tennis / netball court(s) as a priority.

MEDIUM

44. Resurface tennis courts at the end of their playable life. MEDIUM

45. Consider the future provision of an additional tennis court, west of the existing court enclosure, should there be future demand.

LONG

Water reuse and recycling

46. Convert all existing toilet flushes / cisterns to 6/3 litre dual flushes to help to reduce town water usage.

MEDIUM


47. Install aerator taps within all toilet and kitchen basins with a maximum flow rate of 9L/minute.

SHORT

48. Establish a rainwater harvesting system using the main building roof area for playing field irrigation.

Consider the placement of a 250-kl water storage tank to the northwest of the tennis courts.

MEDIUM

49. Construct a system for the discharge of excess rainwater and overflow water from roofs and playing surfaces into the wetland area.

LONG

Management

50. Prepare a cyclic maintenance and replacement program for major capital items. Ensure relevant major capital works for the Sports Park are included in Council’s annual capital works and asset management planning.

SHORT

51. Develop and implement a regular routine facilities maintenance plan for all facilities.

SHORT

52. Continue the Committee of Management operations for the Sports Park, and develop a coordinated site booking system with the development of the indoor sports court. Consider an option of a centralised booking system for all indoor spaces in Yackandandah (eg through Council). Annually review the parks management function in the light of facility developments and changing use.

MEDIUM

53. Ensure the principles of sharing, flexibility, equity and affordability are maintained through all future management decision making.

ONGOING

54. Maintain an equitable balance of community and sporting club representation on the Committee of Management.

ONGOING

22/11/07



55 Draft a standard casual, season and long term user agreement for sports using the ground, indoor courts and multipurpose hall and outdoor sports courts (which address fees, insurance, equipment use, drainage, utility costs, replacement costs etc.

SHORT

22/11/07


3. The Site

3.1 Location

The Sports Park is located in Wellsford Street, a short walk from the main town centre. The site is bounded by Yackandandah Creek to the north, state forest to the south and Wellsford Street to the east. Private land forms the main part of the western boundary.

3.2 Ownership and zoning

An aerial overview of the site and land parcels is provided on the following page in Figure 1.

There are four key land parcels that make up the Sports Park site, with an additional creek corridor running through the northern portion of the site. The northern site boundary (marked within the creek corridor land area) has a flood prone area (under 1 in 100 year flooding). This is not likely to have any significant impact on the future development of the site, although it may be necessary to avoid major infrastructure development in this area.

Parcel A (as marked on the aerial photograph following) is Council owned land that is zoned as a Low Density Residential Zone (LDRZ). Under this zoning, and associated Development Plan Overlay (DPO 3), residential development may be permitted. At the time of writing, this land area was not reserved specifically for public recreation purposes.

Parcels B and D are Crown Land under control of the Indigo Shire Council. Parcel C is also Crown Land, but has no designated land manager. However, Council (and subsequently the Sports Park Committee of Management) currently manage this area as part of the Sports Park.

All Crown Land parcels are zoned for Public Use under PU7 for ‘other public use’. The purpose of this zoning is to recognise public land use for public utility and community services and facilities and to provide for associated uses that are consistent with the intent of the public land reservation or purpose. There are no prohibited uses for land under this zoning, although the land area is not reserved specifically for public recreation purposes.

The site is also bordered to the west by a private land parcel (zoned LDRZ) (marked as parcel E on the aerial following) and state forest (Crown Land zoned PUZ7) that runs the length of the southern boundary (as shown on the following aerial).

NYACKANDANDAH SPORTS PARKSite land parcel boundaries and ownership details

Aerial image courtesy of Google Earth

Property boundary

Creek corridor boundary

Council land

Crown land- under municipal management

Crown land

Crown land

Private land

0 50 150m

A

B

C

D

Legend

A

B

Wellsfo

rd Street

D

E

E

CROWN LAND

C

22/11/07


3.3 Management

The Yackandandah Sports Park Committee of Management, on behalf of the Indigo Shire Council, manages the Sports Park.

The Yackandandah Sports Park Committee of Management is appointed as a Section 86 Committee of Council.

The Committee of Management currently comprises representatives from:

Yackandandah Cricket Club

Yackandandah Tennis Club

Yackandandah Scout Group

Yackandandah Horse Riding Club

Community representatives.

The Committee of Management is responsible for operational issues, maintaining memberships, financial record keeping and accountability, conducting regular meetings and developing procedures as part of their management and development role of the Sports Park.

In 2005, a Sports Park Action Group was established by local residents (also encompassing representatives of the Committee of Management). This was to work with Council and other local community groups to complete the facilities at the Sports Park. Key facilities of focus included the multi purpose indoor sports court area, community events space, function room facilities as well as traffic, parking and landscaped surrounds.

3.4 Facilities and structures

The main facilities and structures at the Sports Park (at the time of writing) include the following: Note: Estimated date of construction or installation are provided in brackets:

sports oval with turf wicket (turf wicket provided in 2000)

cricket practice nets (1996)

four floodlit tennis courts (two hard courts and two artificial grass)

single netball court, line marked on tennis hard courts

tea room and equipment store, tennis pavilion (1981)

a multi-purpose scouts hall/ function room (1998)

a committee room

scout storage shed (1990)

outer structure for a single court multi purpose indoor sports court (1995)

purpose-built sand-based, all weather equestrian riding arena

Riding Club storage shed

wetland area

walking trail along Yackandandah Creek.

22/11/07


3.5 Multi-purpose building infrastructure

The Yackandandah Sports Park Committee of Management has overseen the development of the major building project since inception, in April 1992.

The project originally consisted of four planned stages:

1. the multi-purpose hall (currently used by scouts)

2. the function room (also used as the cricket clubrooms)

3. area under function room (yet to be completed)

4. a multi purpose indoor sports court (yet to be completed).

Stage one of the building project – the multi-purpose hall (scout hall) – was opened on January 26, 1996. Stage two – the function room (cricket clubrooms) - has recently been completed, with total expenditure so far reaching $500,000.

Stages three and four are yet to be completed and directions regarding their potential use, future development and priority within the site (and township) are addressed in the following analysis chapters of this Master Plan.

The photographs opposite depict the existing condition of the multi-purpose building infrastructure, as at February 2007.

Multi-purpose (scout) hall

building frontage

Multi-purpose scout hall internal condition

Cricket club room building incomplete ground floor area

Cricket club room building (second storey) function room

Multi-purpose building infrastructure view from the west across playing field

Multi purpose ndoor sports court, incomplete

22/11/07


4. Sports Park use and future demand

4.1 Existing Sports Park users

There are a number of groups that use the Sports Park and its facilities. They can be broken into the following groups:

Sporting Clubs

Recreation Clubs

Community Groups

Schools

Individuals Users.

A brief summary of each group, their current activities, and the likely opportunities and requirements for future Sports Park use follows.

Sporting clubs

A range of sporting clubs use the Sports Park for regular local, district and regional training, competition and events. Long-standing user clubs include: the Yackandandah Cricket Club, the Yackandandah Tennis Club and the Yackandandah Adult Riding Club. The Yackandandah Night Netball Association has recently relocated their playing base to the Sports Park.

These clubs consist of senior and junior members, who generally play, spectate, coach and / or socialise at the Sports Park. Together, existing sporting clubs have more than 200 members. The Riding Club also attracts many additional users and visitors to the site for their major regional events and competitions.

Consultation highlighted that facilities provided and used by the cricket club are considered to be some of the best in the district, with the Wodonga and District Cricket Association favouring it as a regular finals venue. The cricket club also play junior and lower level senior games at Butson Park.

■ Future requirements of sporting clubs The tennis, netball, cricket and riding clubs all require quality specialised surfaces suited to their individual needs to continue their activities effectively, along with general amenities common to all club toilets, change facilities, social areas, kiosk/canteen, adequate storage and sheltered viewing).

Retaining and maintaining the quality of the turf wicket and outfield is a key requirement of the cricket club.

The riding club recently (in March 2007) obtained Sport and Recreation Victoria (SRV) grant funding to upgrade and extend the existing all-weather riding arena. Maintaining its quality will be important for the club in the future.

Improvement of designated vehicle parking is a key requirement of the sporting clubs, in particular the riding club members, who need to manoeuvre horse floats and trailers in, out and around the site.

The night netball association will require a full-sized netball court, designed to Netball Victoria specifications in order to provide opportunities to develop and operate sanctioned indoor, night and mixed netball competitions, as well as junior player, coaching and umpiring development clinics. This will not be possible without considerable cost, which will be beyond what is likely to be raised by a community of this size.

Recreation clubs

The main resident recreation club of the Sports Park is the 1st Yackandandah Scouts and Cub Scouts.

The scouts are the main occupier of the multi-purpose hall. They also use the large shed south of the main building for equipment storage. In previous years the scouts had strong membership numbers, however at the time of writing, anecdotal evidence suggested that regular use had decreased and numbers had dropped to less than 10.

22/11/07


■ Future requirements of recreation clubs Access to flexible indoor facilities and spaces would be required by the scouts to conduct their regular activities. Access to general amenities including toilets, storage areas and drinking water are also required.

Well-lit and easily accessible parking areas are desirable to promote a sense of safety for scouts, and their parents who often wait to collect their children from meetings at night.

Community groups

The main community groups using the Sports Park include the Yackandandah Community Choir and the Yackandandah Healthy Living Group.

The Healthy Living Group have been regular users of the second storey clubroom area (the function room) for six years. They generally conduct exercise and circuit classes, strength training, floor exercises and Tai Chi. The group commonly use the space in non-peak times, outside of sports club use.

The Yackandandah Community Choir involves an estimated 80 participants across a range of ages. They are regular, but casual users of the main second storey clubroom area, (generally between February and April).

■ Future requirements of community groups The majority of Healthy Living Group participants are older adults, who may require an increased level of accessibility to the building, particularly to the second storey clubroom space. Additionally, access to a clean floor space and a dedicated storage area will be important.

Suggestions made through consultation forums highlighted that the Healthy Living Group may be a suitable regular user of the existing multi-purpose hall (ie. the scout hall) and that the available space may suit its needs in terms of the permanent set-up and storage of their equipment. The provision of an appropriate heating and cooling system would be required to service this group. Further suggestions included the establishment of a more permanent community gymnasium facility.

Schools

The Yackandandah Primary School uses the Sports Park for a range of physical education classes, sporting activities and other competitions, including athletics and tennis. The school’s cricket, soccer and basketball facilities are limited and are generally not suitable to conduct official sporting competition. The school reported a ‘recent increase in the demand for soccer’, as well as a consistent level of participation for all traditional sports in the local area.

■ Future requirements of schools Access to general amenities including toilets, and shaded viewing, seating and marshalling areas for the duration of activities is important. Additionally, access to a kiosk / canteen facilities and rubbish bins on major sporting days would be desirable for schools.

It would also be desirable for the main oval to be retained for the school’s annual athletics carnival.

22/11/07


Individual users and hirers

Private social functions are often held at the Sports Park in the second storey clubroom area (function room). These activities – mainly birthday parties and club functions – require access to general amenities including toilets, kitchen or catering area, rubbish bins and parking. The management of individual users and hirers will be important from a facility monitoring and control perspective.

The Sports Park is also frequented by casual recreational users and ‘out and about locals’. Generally, these groups need access to general amenities including shade, drinking water, toilets, shelter, tables and chairs and defined walking or circuit paths. Dog on and off lead areas may also be necessary for these users, as would a high level of environmental amenity and aesthetic qualities.

■ Future requirements for individual users Individual casual users generally have no pre-determined requirements for Sports Park use, although their regularity of use will generally be influenced by the level of access to facilities and the landscape quality and amenities at the site.

Facility hirers will be influenced by the quality of facilities provided, venue affordability, and times and days of access available. Their use may also be dependent upon the availability of other similar facilities in Yackandandah.

4.2 Future identified uses

Soccer

Soccer has been identified through consultation as a key future winter tenant of the Sports Park. Currently players must travel to the major townships of Wangaratta and Wodonga to participate in regular soccer activities and club competition. The potential establishment of a new soccer club at the Sports Park would assist to provide a long-term winter tenant and maximise the use of the Sports Park all year round.

A soccer gala day was recently held at the Sports Park, involving more than 100 junior players from Yackandandah and surrounding townships. Four junior sized pitches are line marked on the main playing field for under 8’s, 10, 12 and 14 matches.

■ Future requirements for soccer It would be expected that an area on the main playing field could be line-marked to provide at least one senior sized playing pitch to serve the long-term needs of soccer. It would also be desirable for the playing area to provide a greater number of junior pitches to accommodate a range of age groups (as is already the case). Therefore, portable goals and line marked pitches would be preferable to fenced pitches and permanent goals. The provision of floodlights around the oval area would enable the ground to be used for weeknight training activities.

Access to toilets, showers and change rooms, ideally separate for males and females, would be desirable for soccer, particularly if inter-club competition is to be played.

22/11/07


It would be expected that an influx of junior soccer participants would attract a large number of parents and spectators. Providing a kiosk service, at least to a basic level, will be important to service this group, as well as to ensure the club can capitalise financially and continually to inject funds into the maintenance and improvement of Sports Park facilities. Access to social, clubroom and dedicated storage space would also be highly desirable.

Yackandandah Folk Festival

Festival organisers have been reluctant to use the Sports Park in the past, preferring to keep activities centrally located within the township precinct. However, as the Festival grows, added venue space will be important. As many festival activities are conducted at night, upgrading of pedestrian paths and street lighting will be important if nighttime activities were to be accommodated at the Sports Park.

Concerts and events

The Sports Park site may lend itself as a venue space for local community or regional concerts and events. Consideration could be given to both internal and external venue space to accommodate seasonal and weather variations. The use of the site as an internal concert or event venue would depend on the future development and availability of the multi purpose indoor sports court and an appropriate floor surface being installed. Consultation also identified the potential of utilising the space between the main playing field and the indoor sports hall, as an ‘amphitheatre to support outdoor concerts’.

Expanding existing use

The Shire’s Recreation Plan Community Survey, undertaken in November 2006, highlighted a range of recreation facilities in Yackandandah that were ‘not regularly used’ by the majority of survey respondents, including:

‘pony club / horse trail facilities’

‘netball courts’

‘ BMX / mountain bike facilities’.

These facilities are provided at the Sports Park in some form, or could be to the rear of the site. There are opportunities for mountain bikes to connect to existing trails in the state forest, from the Sports Park.

Consultation with local sport and recreation groups indicate that they are well used. However their may be significant opportunities to further develop the Sports Park to better include, improve and promote these facilities.

The Yackandandah Visitor Information Centre suggested that there was visitor interest in the Sports Park, particularly the nearby walking trails and Yackandandah Creek Walk. The greatest level of visitor feedback the staff at the Centre receive, is commonly ‘the lack of signage to, from and along trails’. Additional planting and signage along the Creek could improve the amenity of the Sports Park for visitors.

22/11/07


4.3 Other uses considered

The following future uses were considered and evaluated, however they did not meet the priority objectives of the Sports Park, and are subsequently not included in Master Plan directions.

Fire refuge

Consultation forums raised the potential of using the Sports Park as a Fire Refuge Area, which would require some major improvements to existing building structures and vehicle accessways.

Further consultation with Council’s Fire Prevention Officer identified that there is no designated refuge in the municipality and that recent policies and procedures published by the Department of Justice regarding Fire Refuge Areas indicate strict guidelines for refuge areas (including compliance with various building codes, size and spatial requirements and amenity provision).

At the time of writing, Council were developing a shire-wide approach to this issue and any further work regarding refuge areas would fall outside the scope of this Plan. It is also considered that improving the Sports Park to meet guidelines would be cost prohibitive and impact on the overall purpose of the site; being the provision of sport and recreation activities.

Camping

Over recent years the Yackandandah Camping Ground has struggled to meet the Festivals needs. This may have implications on the future growth of the festival and the Sports Park may offer opportunities for lower level or overflow camping. Additional toilets, showers and basic cooking facilities may need to be provided for camping to be a viable future use. Evaluation of camping opportunities by stakeholders identified that it was not a priority activity to be accommodated in the short to medium term. Continuing to provide camping on a permit only basis is desirable.

4.4 Likely demand for indoor sporting activities

There are currently two existing indoor sports courts in the Shire, at Beechworth and Rutherglen. Courts are line marked and provide for multiple sport use, as well as school physical education activities. A community centre has recently been constructed in nearby Tangambalanga, however it does not cater for indoor sport.

A range of possible sports and uses for an indoor sports court were raised through consultation. They include badminton, basketball, netball, indoor soccer, gymnastics, volleyball and table tennis.

The Shire’s Recreation Plan Community Survey (2006) identified that of all recreation activities participated in by Yackandandah respondents, all were outdoor activities with the exception of ‘going to the cinema’. On a shire-wide basis, similar low rates of participation were identified. This is likely to be because of the lack of indoor facilities. Participation in indoor sporting activities such as basketball, badminton and table tennis were higher in the townships where indoor facilities, activities and programs were provided.

An outline demand assessment for potential indoor sporting activities has been undertaken based on available state and regional participation rates and available local area population projections.2

The following table provides an estimated range of participants by sport for projected high and low population growth scenarios (2025), compared with available 2001 data.

2 Local area population projections have been sourced from the Indigo Shire Planning Scheme Review 2006/07: Discussion Document and 2006 ABS Census data.

22/11/07


Table 01: Estimated likely number of indoor sport participants, 2006 and 2025

Activity 2006 2025

low use scenario

2025 high use scenario

Badminton 7 14 24

Basketball 32 68 117

Gymnastics 6 13 21

Indoor cricket 8 16 28

Indoor soccer 13 27 47

Martial arts 16 33 57

Netball 33 70 121

Table tennis 4 10 16

Volleyball 10 21 36

Figures indicate that there may be significant potential demand by 2025 (assuming population growth reaches identified potential numbers) for a facility that could accommodate a range of indoor sport and recreation activities.

In particular, the sports of basketball, netball, indoor soccer and martial arts will be important to cater for. These sports have experienced consistent participation rates across the state in recent years and are commonly amongst the most participated ‘sports’, particularly at the junior level.

2006 population and participation estimates also indicate that should an indoor facility be provided in Yackandandah, a broad range of social sporting activities and competitions could be developed.

Consultation with the netball and soccer clubs indicated there to be significant demand for indoor training activities and competition development for their sports respectively. Tennis and cricket clubs also indicated their desire for access to an indoor court area for training purposes.

Consultation conducted through the Indigo Shire Recreation Plan community forums indicated a strong demand for indoor hockey; as a legitimate competition activity, as well as to provide alternative training activities and a venue for outdoor hockey players.

Significant demand also exists for use of an indoor sports court by the Yackandandah Primary School for their physical education activities and sporting competitions, particularly at non-peak times.

■ Benefits of providing an indoor sports court The completion of building works and further development of the multi-purpose indoor sports court would provide a great range of benefits for the local community and existing sporting and recreation clubs. Some identified benefits may include:

greater opportunity to develop recreational programs for all ages and abilities

offer a wider range of sports, alternative training options, and opportunities to play indoors, all year round

increase the range of sporting and recreational activities at a reasonable cost to Council and users

foster increase in participation and demand for social sports, recreation and physical activity.

opportunities to accommodate other community events such as markets, festivals and concerts, without increasing the management burden to the responsible authority.

22/11/07


The development of a multi-purpose indoor sports court in Yackandandah also links with preliminary directions provided in the Indigo Shire Recreation Plan – Strategies and Actions Report (July 2007).

This plan suggests that ‘Council support the provision of at least one viable full-size indoor multi-purpose sports court in each main population centre (Beechworth, Rutherglen and Yackandandah), followed by Chiltern and Barnawartha – when there is sufficient demand.’

22/11/07


5. Site issues and analysis

This chapter identifies the Sports Park’s key facility, amenity and landscape characteristics and has been developed from project research and observational and technical assessments. Additional documented issues and opportunities have been provided through community and user group consultation.

Master Plan directions and recommendations (provided in Chapter 2) have been informed by information presented in this chapter.

An Existing Conditions Plan is provided on the following page.

5.1 Site zoning

An aerial representation of the site, its land parcels and zoning is provided as Figure 1 in Chapter 2.

The current zoning of some site land parcels presents possible long-term viability issues for the Sports Park and its future use. Parcel A (as marked on Figure 1 in Chapter 2) is currently zoned as a Low Density Residential Zone (LDRZ). Under this zoning, and associated Development Plan Overlay (DPO 3), residential development may be permitted. Furthermore, Council’s Planning Scheme Review 2006/07: Discussion Document (February 2007) refers to ‘supporting residential development on land currently zoned appropriately’, which at present may include land parcel A and the adjacent private land area (parcel E). Adjacent residential uses may be detrimental to the viability of the park in the long term, for example, if adjacent residents complain of nuisance from lights, sports activity and events than means these activities on the reserve are then constrained.

Crown Land parcels (marked as parcels B, C and D) are all zoned for Public Use. While the purpose of this zoning is to recognise appropriate public land uses, the land area is not specifically reserved for public recreation purposes.

To ensure the future of the Sports Park is in keeping with its use for public recreation and is protected from possible planning and development objections or loss of space through third party advances, relevant land parcels in the precinct should be rezoned PPRZ (Public Park and Recreation Zone) within the Indigo Shire Planning Scheme.

Adjacent land parcels

Additionally, it may be desirable to continue the PCRZ (Public Conservation and Resource Zone) of the Yackandandah Creek west from the Dederang Road boundary to protect its environmental character and amenity.

Consideration should also be given to the purchase, swapping or long-term leasing (and rezoning) of the adjacent private land parcel to potentially accommodate future Sports Park expansion, if required.

■ Site zoning recommendations ■ Rezone land parcels A, B, C and D to PPRZ to protect them as

designated recreation areas.

■ Consider the rezoning of the Yackandandah Creek corridor (west of Dederang Road) to PCRZ (for consistency) and to protect its environmental character and amenity.

■ Negotiate the purchase, acquisition or long-term lease of the neighbouring private land (parcel E) or part of, for possible Sports Park expansion.

Cricket practice wickets.

Scout hall

Tennis pavilion

Tennis & Netball courts

Scout storage shed

Entry to Gorge Walk.

Oval

Riding Arena

Open grass area

Riding clubstorage

Walking track along creek

Parking area

Cricket change rooms

Y A C K A N D A N D A H S P O R T S P A R K Existing Infrastructure/ Conditions Plan

0 20 40m

Directional sign needed

Dense vegetation

Eucalyptus

Exotic trees

Wetland

Important view

Scarred landscape

Yackandandah creek

Existing fence

Existing walking track

Existing gravel roadway

Lack of spatial definition

Important functional area needs detailedresolution and design

LEGEND

Date: April 2007

22/11/07


5.2 Landscape analysis

Mary Jeavons Landscape Architects (MJLA) has prepared a landscape analysis, highlighting key landscape issues and opportunities.

Visual representation of this analysis is provided on the following page.

Landscape amenity

Users of the Sports Park have commented on the ‘fantastic outlook’ across the main playing field from the second storey of the main building. The views across the Sports Park and into the neighbouring ranges are exceptional and extremely important to user groups and for appreciation of the natural character of the site and its surrounds.

A former viewing shelter (now dilapidated) offered a shaded viewing area for spectators, particularly across the playing field towards the attractive native forest backdrop. Replacement of the viewing shelter would be desirable in order to reinstate and enhance viewing positions.

Key functional areas (particularly areas accommodating vehicle movements) all around the main building lack spatial definition and require significant landscape and functionality improvement. These areas contribute little to the overall aesthetic quality of the area.

Through any future site development, user groups stressed the importance of retaining the ‘pleasant surrounds’ of the Sports Park, as well as improving areas that will ultimately provide a more attractive landscape amenity for all users.

Vegetation

The site boasts a fantastic range of mature deciduous exotic species (including Oak, Ash and Elm), with additional Eucalypt species around the southern boundary and at vehicle entrances.

An area of dead, broken and burnt pine trees was evident at the main vehicle entry. Pines should be cleared to provide opportunities for a more visually dramatic main entry into the site.

The stature of existing trees and vegetation is highly valued by users and input from local groups has resulted in recent plantings in the creek corridor. Further and ongoing consultation with local Landcare groups and Council’s Environmental Officers regarding a future Sports Park planting plan would be beneficial in order to continue to enhance the existing landscape character and to strengthen definition of main playing field and other site features.

The extension of existing planting themes suitable to each habitat is highly recommended in order to maintain overall visual amenity and character. Use of indigenous species would assist in long-term vegetation sustainability and management, with exotic species restricted to continuing existing themes.

Wetland

The wetland area (approximately one-hectare in size) adjacent the tennis courts offer improvement opportunities, particularly for landscape amenity and education value.

At the time of inspection, the water level and quality was poor, and the area was populated with noxious weeds. Wetland management was not identified as a high priority through consultation, however its clearing and improvement was identified as an ongoing issue.

Working in conjunction with local Landcare groups and Council’s Environmental Officers would be desirable in order to establish a wetland clean-up program, as well as to provide additional educational and interpretative signage for local users.

22/11/07


Yackandandah Creek corridor

The creek corridor falls outside the scope and responsibility of the Sports Park Committee of Management. However, it provides trail connectivity into the Sports Park, and helps to add to the overall amenity of the site. Support for, and collaboration with local Landcare groups to establish a long-term weed removal program along the waterway and its riparian zone would be desirable.

LEGEND

Important functional area needs detailed resolution and design

Dense vegetation

Eucalyptus sp.

Exotic trees

Wetland

Important view

Scarred landscape

Yackandandah creek

Existing fence

Existing walking track

Existing gravel roadway

Lack of spatial definition

Directional sign needed

Y A C K A N D A N D A H S P O R T S P A R K Draft Landscape Analysis

Mix of weed and native species

Open triangular space marred by deteriorating structure.

Route over hill towards creek becomes rough and confusing. Some signage and indication of route would be beneficial.

Edge of reserve lacks spatial definition.

Parking area for trailers/horse floats

Eucalyptus woodland and Callitris species, with some pines.

Slight rise. Acts as a strong boundary to the space.

0 20 40m

Rough dirt path leads to a disturbed area and creek. Has been someattempt at revegetation. Potential interesting and attractive walking along creek but at present has a rough/disturbed quality. Ill-definedspaces, and no signs to explain status of land or trails. Traces of bike

use. Potential for good bike and walking track.

Main entry to reserve is not particualrly interesting with dead, broken and burnt pines; and has potential for a more dramatic entry.

Attractive backdrop views of wooded hills and bush behind sports field.

Area at end of scout store shed is rough and weedy and needs spatial definition.

Low lying wetland is weedy and has potential to be much more attractive and ecologically sustainable.

Rough edge / boundary to sports reserve. Fill has been banked up around trees, this has killed some Eucalyptus trees. Views of dead trees and sprayed blackberries. Very prominent when viewed from across oval.

Entry to Gorge Walk.

Potential indoor sports court.

Creek accessible at this point. Creek and water visible and attractive as long as water remains clean. Some blackberry, but weed removal would be manageable. Potential to make this a bit more accessible for children’s play and access to creek. Lots of birds.

Area between pavilion, scouts and tennis courts currently underutilised.

Rough unattractive zone between building and oval

Old shade house has collapsed. Excellent viewing position.

Date: April 2007

22/11/07


■ Landscape amenity recommendations ■ Work with Council and local LandCare agency (or similar) to

establish a weed removal and remediation program for the Creek corridor and wetland.

■ Consider the provision of a low-scale boardwalk and interpretive signage in association with the wetland to enhance visitor use and school / environmental education.

■ Work with Council and DSE to remove any dead, broken, burnt or senescing pine trees from the site for safety and risk management reasons.

■ Provide new site entry planting featuring an avenue of Eucalyptus species.

■ Provide additional indigenous bush backdrop planting to the hillside behind cricket practice wickets.

■ Continue to provide exotic trees for definition of ovals and avenues, shade and visual amenity around the oval and feature planting in picnic areas. Use indigenous species in all other locations.

■ Provide new backdrop planting in indigenous species along the southern site boundary, adjacent Crown Land.

■ Plant a row of large trees (consider Eucalyptus species) along the southwestern boundary of the equestrian area to provide a buffer from wind and weather.

■ Work with Council and local Landcare agency (or similar) to establish a long-term weed (Ash, Poplar and Willow species) removal program for the Yackandandah Creek.

■ Replant suitable trees between the oval and indoor sports court to protect the building and enhance spectator amenity.

■ Landscape the space around the entry to the clubrooms to create a sense of arrival, especially for people using the function room.


Internal circulation

There are two designated vehicle entries into the site. One is predominately used to access tennis facilities and associated car parking, with the other used to access the main building (cricket clubrooms) and the site’s internal driveway system.

An internal gravel driveway is provided throughout the site, with some internal gates provided to help monitor and restrict traffic flow, particularly during equestrian events / competitions. The overall quality of internal roadways is average and their re-grading; including repairing of potholes, would be beneficial.

Should any further development and expansion of the site take place towards the western boundary (into private land), the extension of the internal roadway and provision of directional signage would assist traffic management and associated trailer / horse float parking.

There is a need to improve the definition between vehicle and pedestrian circulation throughout the site, as there is currently limited delineation between pedestrians, horses and vehicles (cars, trucks or floats).

Car parking

There are no structured or defined car spaces on the site, although designated areas are obvious in three key areas; adjacent tennis courts, at the cricket clubroom building entry and on the grassed area associated with the riding club. All areas are susceptible to weather conditions, and deterioration from vehicle use.

Greater definition and functional improvements to car parking areas are required in order to better control traffic flow, as well as to enhance (and define) key functional areas of the Sports Park. Key areas include around the entry to the main building and the area adjacent the tennis court enclosure and tea pavilion.

22/11/07


It would also be highly desirable to prevent further vehicle access to the social recreation area between the tennis courts and the creek, so as to aid its regeneration and value as a pedestrian and family friendly zone. A ‘pedestrian only connection’ between the tennis courts and main building entry should also be developed to better separate pedestrians and vehicles.

Should the use of private land to the west of the equestrian riding arena be acquired, a dedicated horse float / trailer parking area should be developed to improve traffic flow and vehicle / horse / pedestrian conflicts. The grassed area currently used for overflow flow parking could be reserved as a secondary riding arena or improved as a spectator viewing area.

The presentation of the function room entry from the carpark is relatively poor and it would be desirable to landscape the space around the entry to the clubrooms to create a sense of arrival, especially for people using the function room.

Tracks and Trails

The Shire’s Recreation Plan Community Survey (2006) identified that the most participated recreation activity by Yackandandah residents was ‘walking’.3 Existing tracks and trails are already popular with the local and visitor community and it would desirable for Council to support the enhancement and promotion of the existing trail along Yackandandah Creek and any connections to the Sports Park and Yackandandah Gorge Walk.

Council’s Planning Scheme Review 2006/07: Discussion Document identifies some preliminary strategies regarding the future development of Yackandandah. While no specific reference is made to the Sports Park, the ‘establishment of a quality walking/cycling track between Yackandandah and Beechworth’ is highlighted as a key objective. The development of this track is likely to include connection with the Sports Park, and may require the use of its public amenities to potentially serve as a track or trail hub for users.

3 Refer to Appendices for more detailed survey responses and analysis.

Evidence of mountain bike and horse riding was observed through the Sports Park and into the native forest area, along existing fire tracks and access ways. Negotiation with DSE to help improve these areas for trail riding and to formalise usage opportunities would be desirable, although assistance from Council may be required.

Connection of the Yackandandah Creek trail with a newly developed internal pedestrian circuit path system is recommended to help to facilitate increased casual use through walking and dog walking.

Township connectivity

The Sports Park is located a few hundred metres from the town centre, and offers a direct access route via Wellsford Street. The close proximity of the site to other community facilities (eg. school, senior citizens centre) provides good opportunity to improve on and off-road access to the Sports Park.

Consultation highlighted that it would be desirable for Council to provide ‘better footpaths’ for scooter users, wheelchair users, parents with prams etc in order to improve access and encourage more people to walk to the Sports Park and its trail connections.

Council may also wish to consider the improvement of street lighting and signage along Wellsford Street to-and-from the main highway.

22/11/07


■ Access and circulation recommendations ■ Upgrade and redesign the car park at the front of the main

building (cricket club room) entry to provide a sense of arrival and a stronger connection and entry for the building, including provision of accessible parking spaces.

■ Prevent vehicle access to the grassed recreation area between tennis courts / tea pavilion and the Yackandandah Creek. In the short-term, provide designated car parking spaces in the areas immediately west and south of the tennis court enclosure.4

■ Reconfigure existing tennis court car parking area (and driveway) to provide defined parking spaces, in conjunction with the development of a new indoor sports court entry area.

■ Develop a horse float / vehicle parking area on the private land (if available) to better control vehicle, horse and pedestrian conflict.

■ Extend the existing internal roadway along the southern site boundary to connect with any new car park.

■ Improve directional signage at both Sports Park entries and at key locations (as marked on Master Plan) throughout the site and improve and/or grade all internal roadways.

■ Work with Council to improve footpaths, directional signage and street lighting (where possible in-line with Council’s budgeted capital works program) along Wellsford Street between the town centre (High Street) and the Sports Park.

■ Create a more defined pedestrian and circuit path system around and throughout the site, connecting key activity areas with the Yackandandah Creek corridor trail (ie. Gorge Walk).

4 Any redesign or reconfiguration should be conducted in conjunction with the development of the proposed indoor sports centre to better service a main entry area.

■ Formalise the existing desire line that crosses the Yackandandah Creek (near the north-west site corner) into a designated creek crossing, and further connecting into the Sports Park trail network.

■ Create a pedestrian only link from the main cricket clubroom car park to the tennis courts, in conjunction with any future indoor sports court entrance.

22/11/07


5.3 Facilities and structures

Buildings

The Sports Park offers two major building structures; the tennis club (tea room and toilets) and the main sports building, which incorporates the multi-purpose hall, cricket clubrooms and storage, ground floor and indoor sports court areas (currently incomplete).

Analysis and recommendations associated with the indoor sports court building / area are provided in the following chapter.

Main building (cricket clubroom / function room)

The second storey of the main building has recently been completed to serve as the cricket clubrooms, and to offer a flexible space for events, functions and programs. The Healthy Living Group for their exercise classes currently uses it. The building provides male and female toilet facilities, a kitchen and committee / meeting room.

The second storey facility provides limited accessibility, offering only stairway access. The easterly and westerly facing balconies offer excellent viewing across the main playing field and towards the tennis courts.

The ground floor area under the cricket clubrooms is currently incomplete and would form part of any future building works. Consultation has raised a number of potential functional uses for this space, including change rooms for the indoor sports court and / or winter uses of the playing field, equipment storage and dedicated gymnasium space for the Healthy Living Group and other user group storage areas.

The ground floor area should be completed in conjunction with any further building development works. The area, as a priority, should accommodate additional change space to serve the indoor sports court and any regular winter tenant, due to the potential volume of users and range of uses to be served.

Multi-purpose hall (scout building)

The multi-purpose hall was developed in 1998 and is currently occupied by the 1st Yackandandah Scout Group. The building provides a dedicated entry to an open hall area, internal storage facility and a meeting room with a mezzanine style storage area above. The multi-purpose hall was originally developed to provide connection into the main sport court area, to offer greater flexibility of available space(s).

The long-term use and occupancy of the multi-purpose hall should be considered in-line with changing and competing demands of user groups and the Yackandandah community. Alternative uses identified through consultation included a dedicated exercise and gymnasium space, a storage area to support the indoor sports court and to retain it as a multi-purpose area.

Improvements such as the addition of heating and cooling systems would increase the functionality of the space for other uses.

Tennis tea pavilion

The tennis tea pavilion, constructed in 1981, was primarily developed as a tennis clubroom facility. It provides a kitchenette, small social area, male and female toilets and an accessible toilet, however no ramped access is provided into the facility.

The structure was observed to be in sound condition, although it is no longer used for its primary purpose and remains a basic toilet and storage facility. It would be desirable to incorporate the social and clubroom needs of the tennis club into the main building (cricket clubrooms), as the requirements of both groups are similar and greater sharing opportunities could be realised.

Consideration should be given to reconfiguring the tennis tea pavilion into a public accessible toilet and shelter that could better service the entire Sports Park needs, particularly for event and competition days, the casual court users, and the projected increase in use that soccer players and spectators would bring.

22/11/07


New buildings

A primary objective of the Master Plan is to consolidate the overall building footprint on site and to limit development to the existing buildings that require completion. However, a long-term vision of the riding club is to have additional toilet and social facilities available closer to the riding areas. Demand for existing supporting amenities provided within the main building is expected to be high, leaving little opportunity for the riding club to utilise available facilities.

The riding club raised the opportunity of developing an additional pavilion to support club activities. Currently, the riding club is limited in its ability to provide convenient catering services, toilet amenities and social spaces during events without the support of temporary infrastructure.

With the potential introduction of a dedicated winter tenant (ie. soccer) at the Sports Park, opportunity may exist to include associated storage areas (for both equestrian and soccer) in a small facility to serve riders, to better serve the western end of the site. Consideration should be given to its potential location between the main playing field and the all-weather riding arena. This location may provide better access to service connection, greater vehicle management and control, and good proximity to main activity areas (ie. riding arena and playing field).

■ Building recommendations ■ Provide an accessible entry and second storey access to cricket

club pavilion building, in association with further building works proposed for the indoor sports court.

■ Complete the ground floor of the cricket clubroom to include: a small canteen / kiosk with external servery, male and female change rooms and toilets (to serve indoor sports court and playing field), an accessible shower / toilet and storage areas.

■ Consider providing a second set of change facilities designated for outdoor sports, as well as an officials change area and first-aid room under the function room is required. (if required).

■ Consider the conversion of the tennis tea pavilion into a public toilet and shelter to better serve casual court users, and all Sports Park users. Encourage shared use of the cricket clubrooms to include the tennis and soccer club for off-court social activities.

■ Consider the development of a new combined riding club pavilion (with toilets and storage) and winter tenant storage area.

■ Consider the long-term use of the multi-purpose hall in-line with changing and competing demands, and improve facility functionality through the provision of heating and cooling systems.

Storage

The need for additional storage was consistently raised through all consultation forums. The incomplete nature of buildings and facilities places increased demand on existing storage areas. The nature of the main user groups and their activities also require significant storage areas for major equipment (eg. goal posts, tractors, equipment).

The ground floor of the main building currently acts as the main internal storage area for equipment. Separate storage areas are also provided for the scouts (multipurpose hall users) and the riding club on site, although both groups reported that they were ‘inadequate to cater for all their storage requirements.’ Consultation identified that additional storage was required, however an increase in separate storage sheds on the site is not preferred.

Maintenance equipment including a tractor is currently stored underneath the main building second storey function space. The storage of large motorised equipment and flammable materials may not be a safe use for this storage area. It would be highly desirable to provide alternative storage for this equipment on site.

22/11/07


The space currently used could be reconfigured as an internal storage area in future building development. Consideration could be given to using the multi-use hall (or part of) for additional storage areas to support the indoor sports court when developed.

■ Storage area recommendations ■ Relocate the tractor away from its existing location under the

cricket clubrooms to an alternative location for safety reasons. Consider the Scout’s storage shed as an alternative location.

■ Consider future alternative uses of the Scout’s storage shed should the group fail to continue to be a regular Sports Park user group (eg. soccer goal post storage).

■ Ensure basic equipment storage areas are provided in conjunction with – and to support - any future building development works, particularly the indoor sports court.

■ Investigate the potential of combining winter tenant storage in conjunction with any future riding club pavilion building.

Other structures

Furniture

Park furniture is minimal on site and consists of a BBQ and picnic table near the tennis tea pavilion. Opportunities exist to enhance the social family recreation area between the main building and the creek with additional park furniture to promote casual use and social gatherings.

Exceptional views (and spectator viewing) are provided across the playing field from the second storey clubroom balcony, however access to this area is restricted for people with a disability, those with mobility difficulties or parents with prams.

There is no ground level, shaded and / or designated spectator viewing or seating around the oval or riding arena. An old shade house on the northwest side of the oval is dilapidated and it would be beneficial if use increases if it were rebuilt to offer shaded and accessible viewing.

Fencing

The Sports Park precinct is generally open and accessible for public use. However, the tennis court enclosure and designated riding arena have controlled access by fencing. The main playing field has a pipe rail fence around its boundary, separating the playing area from the internal access road, but does not prevent general access and use of the grassed area.

■ Furniture and fencing recommendations ■ Upgrade the existing BBQ area to provide an accessible and

more welcoming landscape.

■ Provide an accessible picnic area between the cricket practice wickets and the cricket clubrooms, under the shade of existing trees.

■ Regrade landscape and install additional spectator seating around the playing field and on the western side of the indoor sports court building.

■ Rebuild the viewing platform on the western side of the playing field and integrate it with any pedestrian path network.

■ Retain the open, accessible nature of the Sports Park, but retain fenced separation of main activity areas from spectators and vehicles to ensure their safety, to maintain traffic management control and retain quality of specialised surfaces.

22/11/07


5.4 Multi-purpose indoor sports court

Completing the indoor sports courts will provide the Yackandandah and district community with a venue that can cater for a range of additional sport, recreation and community activities, and further provide and promote opportunities for facility sharing and co-location.

The Committee of Management and other facility stakeholders have consistently reiterated the need for the indoor sports court to serve a greater range of activities than just sport, and view the potential centre principally as a community recreation space and hub for the town.

Building dimensions and design

Consultation forums and preliminary demand assessments conducted have highlighted a range of potential and likely uses for a new indoor sports court at the Sports Park, including basketball, badminton, netball, indoor soccer, volleyball, table tennis, indoor hockey and gymnastics. Other additional uses identified included tennis, martial arts, scout and school activities, community markets, concerts and general recreation and exercise activities.

It is important for developments of this nature to be flexible in the way they offer facilities and cater for different activities. There is also a need to provide for specific requirements for a potential ‘anchor tenant or user group’.

Initial evaluation of the proposed facility design and floor plans indicate a court footprint of approximately 18.27m x 32m could be accommodated within the existing external building structure. The height of the sports court (at its lowest point) is an estimated 7m. The size of the existing internal space is likely to be suitable for a number of sports and activities, although it does not provide for association netball (ie. ceiling height and appropriate run-off space) and for volleyball (ceiling height).

This is a major constraint as the market for night netball is likely to be stronger than many other sports. Should netball be considered the main or anchor tenant of the sports court, it would be necessary to provide a full-sized netball court (designed to Netball Victoria guidelines) in order to facilitate interclub netball competitions and junior player pathways. However, it is expected that the level of netball where there is strongest demand may only be social and locally based teams.

As under-sized facilities will affect long-term use, viability and access to potential funding sources, careful planning through design will be required to maximise available floor space. Furthermore, structurally, it may be difficult and cost prohibitive to alter the existing building structure. Potential alterations may require the need to adjust floor and ceiling heights in the sports court and multi-use hall area, as well as reconfiguring other existing structures. If funds are available, it is recommended that a full sized netball court to netball Victoria’s standards be provided.

Additional space could be created through the development of an entry, reception, office and viewing area on the eastern side of the main building structure, with the main entrance facing the tennis courts and car park area. This may help to alleviate some spatial constraints for floor area, and provide additional safety aspects for players, umpires and spectators. If the entry is from the southern end of the court it would take up further court space whereas if from the eastern side additional space for the entry could be created outside the court area.

Ultimately, future activity demand and need should be the key driver for facility planning, although the overall capacity of the community to deliver a facility with limited available resources will also be important.

Stakeholders raised design, materials and construction methods as important factors. Providing ‘plenty of natural light’, ‘views towards the sports grounds’ and ‘the ability to open the western wall to provide an integrated indoor / outdoor space for community events and festivals’ were highly valued.

22/11/07


Floor surface

In choosing a preferred floor surface the following factors should be considered:

the sporting mix – which sports are going to be played

the dominant sport – is there a more dominant requirement for a particular sport or activity

the standard – who will be playing and at what level

use - how intensive will the use be

management and maintenance – what level of resources are available

financial considerations – overall capital costs and ongoing revenue generation ability.

Surfaces considered for the indoor sports court include timber or concrete with an acrylic coating or surface. Where funds are available, a timber floor is preferred.

The original facility was designed to provide a timber floor area that would be raised to the same level as existing ground level floors (ie. the multi-purpose hall). Where possible the floor should be level across the entire building, however if the floor is raised to match other rooms considerable work will be required to ensure the building and all toilet and change facilities are accessible and DDA compliant.

Viability

Operational costs

A conservative estimate of potential revenue that a single indoor multi-purpose sports court can generate has been sourced from a review of other similar ‘stand alone’ venues in regional areas of Victoria. Revenue is likely to be between $20,000 to $50,000 per full sized netball court. However, this will be highly dependent on the range of activities and programs offered, quality of facilities (court and support amenities), opportunities for secondary spending (ie. kiosk or vending machines) and the level of marketing and promotion of the venue and the opportunities that it provides.

Recent trends in recreation participation indicate a desire towards participating indoors and many centres around the state are indicating that indoor soccer is a significant growth market. Providing the right mix of activities will ultimately determine the success and financial viability of the proposed indoor sports court.

The ability to generate enough revenue from peak usage times (predominately weekday evenings) will also be dependent on the range of sports and activities that can be accommodated, and the ability of management to provide practical programming and scheduling (ie. not schedule games at 11:00pm).

Consultation with potential sports court user groups identified that ‘affordability of activities’ would significantly influence the number of players and participants. Initially, key sports such as netball, basketball and indoor soccer may need to financially support other recreation activities and programs that are targeted towards increasing participation and usage of non-peak time slots (eg. schools and community exercise classes).

22/11/07


Life-cycle costs

Financial performance of the sports court and the management body should be monitored regularly to ensure the centre remains an operational reality. Additionally, a significant percentage of facility generated revenue is likely to be re-invested back into the ongoing maintenance and replacement of court facilities, particularly floor surfaces.

Building industry standards recommend an annual maintenance commitment of up to 7% of total building costs for new indoor recreation facilities. However, local councils operating community facilities cannot regularly meet this commitment. Investing in regular building and court maintenance programs will help to prolong the life of the centre and assist to reduce major capital spending within 10 to 15 years of construction. Major capital improvements would be required within 15 to 20 years in order to continue to meet contemporary standards and meet changing community expectations.

■ Indoor sports court recommendations ■ Target the key sports of netball, basketball and indoor soccer to

inform design of the sports court.

■ Where funds allow seek to enlarge the courts space to provide for full size competition standard netball.

■ Where the floor can be provided at grade, consider providing a concrete floor with a cushioned acrylic or similar surface to minimise overall development and ongoing maintenance costs, and maximise accessibility of the courts space for people with a disability.

■ Prepare a detailed design to maximise courts space and accessibility to all facilities that is DDA complaint and include a main entry, reception, and office and viewing area on the eastern side – facing the tennis courts.

■ Prepare a business case and apply for funding for the development of the indoor sports court.

5.5 Specialised sports surfaces

Main playing field

The main playing field is predominately used for cricket during summer months and provides a full-size senior cricket oval with turf wickets. Permanent sightscreens are provided at each end of the ground. The playing field is currently irrigated via water provided from the Yackandandah Creek.

Observational assessments and stakeholder consultation highlighted that the oval is well maintained and is also one of the preferred cricket finals venues within the district. The size of the oval is considered appropriate for a range of outdoor sporting activities, and could easily accommodate additional winter sports including soccer, hockey, Australia Rules football, lacrosse etc.

Soccer has begun using the playing field more regularly, and there is an expectation that they will continue to grow and use the ground more often. Portable goal posts are used and multiple junior sized pitches are line marked around the playing area.

Preliminary measurements undertaken by user groups have identified that a senior soccer pitch (90m x 45m) could be provided within the available grassed playing area, avoiding the turf wicket. The turf wicket must be protected from winter sports users. The addition of floodlights around the main playing field will allow the ground to be used for weeknight training during winter.

It is not advisable for main playing field to be used for any equestrian activities at any time, in order to retain quality and reduce the need for any future expensive ground reinstatement projects.

22/11/07


Riding arena(s)

The Sports Park accommodates two riding arenas, one dedicated all-weather surface arena and a secondary grassed arena that is also configured as vehicle parking space when not required for riding activities.

Funding to upgrade, extend and improve the drainage of the all-weather arena was received in March 2007. It is recommended that any extension to the arena be undertaken towards the western end, so as to maintain available space between it and the main playing field for traffic flow and any potential pavilion building that may be constructed long-term.

The riding club identified that it would be desirable for future site plans to include the development of an indoor equestrian arena or a second dedicated outdoor area. @leisure considers that upgrading of the all-weather arena would assist to service most additional demand, and that the grassed area be maintained as a second arena through the removal of vehicle parking. An indoor arena would significantly affect the visual quality of the Sports Park, and therefore would not be recommended for this site.

Outdoor tennis / netball courts

The Sports Park provides four floodlit tennis courts (two synthetic grass and 2 hard courts), with a single netball court line marked on the tennis hard courts. Court surface quality is considered average and a medium-term replacement program should be considered, giving priority replacement to the shared tennis / netball courts.

Existing court enclosure fencing in an acceptable condition, however the absence of windbreaks and leaf litter barriers was observed. Synthetic grass court, fence lines were heavily littered with leaves because of the surrounding trees.

Netball court run-off areas are considered generous along court sidelines, however, minimum goal line to fencing run-offs (3.05m) are not met at either

end of the court. It could be expected that the lengthening of the court area and replacing of fencing would not be a priority for the Sports Park, although run-off areas are considered by the sports’ peak body as a potential injury risk. It would be desirable to consider other mechanisms for player protection (eg. fence padding).

All courts are floodlit to a minimal level suitable for training and club based competition. Lighting towers are ageing and may not meet the current Australian Standards.

It would be highly desirable to retain court floodlighting to continue to meet changing demand and to maximise participation.

■ Sports surface recommendations ■ Continue to make available and line-mark the main playing field

for soccer (or other winter sporting tenant). If a full sized soccer pitch cannot be sited safely between the wicket and the boundary fence, consider relocating the turf wickets / square slightly to the west and protect the quality of the turf.

■ Monitor the condition of the playing surface following soccer’s first season and evaluate the need for any drainage or other improvements to better accommodate a permanent winter user.

■ Consider the provision of floodlighting around the playing field to better support winter sport training.

■ Support the upgrade and extension (towards the west) of the all-weather riding arena surface and associated drainage.

22/11/07


■ Sports surface recommendations (cont’d) ■ Develop an alternative horse float / trailer parking area to

prevent large vehicle use of the grassed equestrian area and retain it as a secondary riding arena. Consider possible relocation of storage shed to better accommodate a second arena.

■ Assess the quality of tennis / netball court lighting, the level of output and energy usage, and the overall safety of lighting towers (particularly timber towers).

■ Replace floodlights and light towers to meet Australian Standards. Upgrade lighting on the combined tennis / netball court(s) as the priority.

■ Resurface tennis courts at the end of their playable life and consider the provision of an additional tennis court, west of the existing court enclosure, should future demand exist.

5.7 Water use and supply

Ecowise Environmental undertook an analysis of water supply, use and management at the Sports Park in April 2007. A copy of the report and its findings is provided in Appendix 4. The following section provides a summary of key issues, opportunities and recommendations documented in the report.

Water supply

The Yackandandah Creek is used for irrigation of the main playing area and provides the majority of water on site. Reticulated town water is used for internal facilities, being kitchen and toilet facilities in the tennis and cricket clubroom areas. The annual average consumption for town water is 100kL, and while considered relatively low, some reduction would be desirable.

Estimates for the volume of water used for playing field irrigation range between 420 and 1,500kL per annum. However, there is uncertainty of exact usage figures due to the absence of an appropriate water meter.

Water management

Irrigation of the main playing area is generally only undertaken between November and March (during the cricket season), up to 2-3 times weekly. It is speculated that due to the pervious nature of the subsoil and proximity of the playing field to the creek, that any water not taken up by the grass or stored in soil pores will rapidly re-enter the stream.

Wastewater from kitchen and toilet facilities is treated in an in-ground septic tank system, with treated water discharged to the subsoil at the south east end of the playing field. It would be expected that any additional toilet or kitchen facilities developed as part of the main building, would also have wastewater discharged into the same septic system.

22/11/07


Drainage

Consultation highlighted poor drainage of the existing all-weather riding arena surface. Council and the Riding Club recently received funding from SRV to upgrade and extend the all-weather surface, and to investigate improved drainage.

Drainage around the main building entry is poor and requires improvement. It would be desirable to upgrade drainage around the western and southern areas immediately surrounding the main building in conjunction with an overall landscape and car parking improvement program for the site.

No issues regarding drainage of the main playing field were raised, which may be a result of its previous limited use by winter sporting tenants. However, it is recommended that the quality of the playing surface be monitored throughout the winter soccer season, and any areas of concern be addressed prior to the next season to ensure the long-term integrity of the surface.

Options for efficient water use

A range of options to increase the efficiency of water management, treatment and use, were considered. The overall recommendations are provided below. Appendix 4 provides assessment details of all options investigated.

It would be desirable to undertake minor plumbing improvements in all clubrooms and kitchen facilities on site, to reduce demand on town water and to improve efficiency of existing systems.

The roof space on the main building provides a significant opportunity to harvest rainwater primarily for future irrigation purposes. Minimum irrigation requirements have been estimated by Ecowise Environmental (for the main playing field for the summer period) to be approximately 360kL.

Initial estimates indicate that rainwater harvesting from the main building roof could yield over 1,000kL per annum, based on average rainfall records. This could potentially meet the needs of the Sports Park for irrigation purposes, thus removing the need to use Creek or town water supplies.

This solution would require minor infrastructure improvements that could easily be incorporated into remaining building works, and a suitable location for the placement of a 250kL water tank would be required.

The alternative of using treated water from the septic tank system to irrigate the main playing field was considered inappropriate, based on uncertainty of water quality, anticipated yields and overall cost-benefit.

■ Water recommendations ■ Convert all existing toilet flushes / cisterns to 6/3 litre dual

flushes, as well as urinal flush cisterns to a 2 L flush cistern to help to reduce town water usage.

■ Install aerator taps within all toilet and kitchen basins with a maximum flow rate of 9L/minute.

■ Establish a rainwater harvesting system using the main building roof for playing field irrigation, and consider the placement of a 250kL water storage tank to the north west of the tennis courts.

■ Establish a system for the discharge of excess or overflow water from roof capture and tank water storage into the wetland area.

22/11/07


5.8 Management

The Committee of Management and the key user groups should be congratulated on the progress made on the facilities at the Sports Park to date. A good foundation for future opportunity has been created through positive community input and innovative thinking. The Committee has a refreshing outlook on the future development of the site and a strong desire to work together to achieve mutual objectives and outcomes.

The current Committee of Management have representatives with a mix of professional business and technical experience, combined with extensive local and site specific knowledge that will be necessary to retain and enhance over the life and implementation of the Master Plan.

Key challenges for the Committee of Management will be to:

a. keep pace with changing and competing demands of existing user groups, and with other potential users within the Yackandandah area, and

b. meet potential increasing costs of casual users of the Sports Park, and or to recoup costs of this use from casual users

An essential role for the management committee will also be to monitor use and demand with regular users, and maintain a high level of communication with users, Council and other stakeholders.

Prioritising facility and site improvements will continue to be a challenge with available resources. Evaluation of priorities and development projects should be undertaken on an annual basis in conjunction with the implementation of this Plan. Projects should be determined by addressing the following management and provision principles:

maintain flexibility and multi-use through new facilities

promote shared use of facilities to maximise use, income and available opportunities

consider emerging trends and changes in demand when allocating Sports Park resources

be equitable and consistent through pricing, and ensure activities are affordable.

The existing management model has major tenant / user groups responsible for their sport specific facilities, with shared facilities managed and maintained by the Committee of Management. Consultation highlighted that key sports were comfortable with this arrangement and willing to provide future resource commitments to develop sport specific facilities, assuming long-term use and tenancy could be guaranteed.

The existing Committee of Management structure may need to be revised following the development of the indoor sports court facility, due to its higher-level need for on-site management, scheduling and set-up. This would help to ensure maximisation of use and appropriate activity scheduling. A coordinated bookings system, possibly managed through Council or Visitor Information Centre, for indoor sports court scheduling, larger scale events and seasonal draws would be desirable.

With future development of indoor facilities and outdoor landscaped areas proposed, it would be desirable for user groups and the Committee of Management to develop and implement a regular routine maintenance plan for facilities. Additionally, a cyclic maintenance and replacement program should be established for major capital items (including specialised sport surfaces, buildings, major and emergency services etc.) with the Shire’s Asset Management Department to ensure funds are adequately and appropriately budgeted for.

22/11/07


■ Management recommendations ■ Maintain Committee of Management operation of the Sports

Park, and consider the implementation of a coordinated site booking system with the development of the multi purpose indoor sports court.

■ Continue to review management as the facilities develop and use changes.

■ Prepare a cyclic maintenance and replacement program for major capital items and ensure major capital works for the Sports Park are included in Council’s annual capital works and asset management planning.

■ Develop and implement a regular routine maintenance plan for facilities.

■ Ensure the principles of sharing, flexibility, equity and affordability are maintained through all future management decision making.

■ Maintain an equitable balance of community and sporting club representation on the Committee of Management.

■ Prepare standard agreements for casual users, seasonal and long term tenants on the Park to clarify roles and responsibilities.

22/11/07


6. Appendices

Appendix 1: Indigo Recreation Plan

Community Survey Findings (2006)

In November 2006, a community sport and recreation survey was distributed to 5,800 Indigo Shire residents via post as part of the consultation process for the development of the Shire’s Recreation Plan. A total of 758 usable responses were received and analysed. Of these responses, 121 were received from Yackandandah residents.

The survey identified that the most participated recreation activity by Yackandandah residents was ‘walking’. The table below shows the top twelve participated activities for females and males in Yackandandah.

Table 2: Top 12 recreation activities participated by Yackandandah residents

Activities Female Male Total

Walking 32 44% 14 29% 46 38%

Cycling (Road) 13 18% 13 27% 26 21%

Swimming 11 15% 9 18% 20 17%

Lawn Bowls 4 6% 8 16% 12 10%

Walking (Bush) 6 8% 5 10% 11 9%

Fishing 3 4% 7 14% 10 8%

Golf 3 4% 7 14% 10 8%

Camping 5 7% 4 8% 9 7%

Tennis 4 6% 3 6% 7 6%

Cinema 4 6% 1 2% 5 4%

Cricket 0 0% 5 10% 5 4%

Gym/Fitness 5 7% 0 0% 5 4%

Facilities

Facilities most regularly used for recreation by survey respondents in Yackandandah for both men and women (either regularly or occasionally) include:

local neighbourhood parks

bicycle paths and walking trails

lakes and riverside parks

regional parks and gardens.

Facilities highlighted in the survey that were ‘not regularly used’ included:

pony club / horse trail facilities

netball courts

skate / BMX / mountain bike facilities.

These facilities are provided at the Yackandandah Sports Park in some form, with the exception of the skate park. These results reflect the significant opportunity that exists to development the Sports Park to better include, improve and promote these facilities.

Future activity demand

Respondents were asked what activities they ‘would like to do away from home that they currently do not do.’ Almost 30% of respondents said there was ‘nothing they would like to do.’

22/11/07


The top activities that people in Yackandandah suggested they would like to do included the following:

gym / fitness

cycling (road)

swimming (both indoor and outdoor)

walking.

In the context of this Master Plan, the promotion and encouragement of ‘walking’ through recommendations developed is expected to be a key focus.

Respondents were asked ‘what single thing could the Indigo Shire do to make recreation more fulfilling?’ The following responses from Yackandandah residents were considered in the context of the Master Plan.

■ Walking / cycling tracks The following responses regarding walking / cycling tracks were received:

build or extend walking / cycling paths

provide flat walking tracks

improve levels of safety and directional signage

seal footpaths to make walking more pleasant

ensure township facilities are connected by trails.

■ Sports facilities The following responses regarding sports facilities were received:

complete the Yackandandah indoor sporting complex and Sports Park and include a gym

fitness / gym centre with women’s classes in the evening for those who work in Yackandandah.

■ Council services The following responses regarding council services were received:

ensure ongoing financial resources and maintenance of facilities is provided

clean up along creek and walking tracks

improve access to and from facilities around Yackandandah

better communication and advertising of recreation opportunities

provide dog poo bins at off-leash area in Yackandandah.

Priorities

Respondents were asked to ‘identify the recreation service or facility that should be priority if funding became available’. The two main responses that could be accommodated within the Sports Park and hence relevant to this Plan included:

develop, maintain and increase safety of walking and riding tracks

complete the Yackandandah indoor sports complex building.

22/11/07


Appendix 2: Yackandandah Sports

Park Community Forum

A Community Forum was held (with 16 attendees) at the Yackandandah Hall on Monday 5th February 2007 regarding the development of the Yackandandah Sports Park Master Plan.

The following attendees were present (in particular order):

Louise Berg (Yackandandah Riding Club)

Elaine Mason (Healthy Living Group, Community Choir, Folk Festival)

Jane Davidson (Healthy Living Group)

Leslie Bray (Healthy Living Group)

Julie Keeble (Indigo Shire Visitor Services)

Colin Barnard

David Larkin (Yackandandah Tennis Club)

Julie Methven-Kelley (Yackandandah Night Netball Association)

Simone Hicks (Yackandandah Riding Club)

Kathy Petzke (Yackandandah Primary School)

Allan Wapling (Scouts)

Trevor Matthews (Scouts)

Andrew Cudars (Soccer club and Sports Park)

Kevin Poyner (Sports Park Committee of Management)

Paula Mobach (Upper Hume Community Health Service).

The following is a summary of the meetings discussion and not necessarily the views of all stakeholders or @leisure.

Sports Park use

A range of existing uses / users and their potential issues and opportunities for the Sports Park were presented. The following future use opportunities were raised.

Enhancing existing opportunities

Potential to use as a Fire Refuge Area was suggested, which may require improving vehicle access to the Sports Park. Suggested that Council’s Fire Prevention Officer be consulted about the requirements needed.

The Yackandandah Riding Club wished to ensure that their assets are protected and ongoing use retained.

Separate storage areas for all user groups were identified as essential.

Existing exercise class users requested a dedicated area to conduct their activities, so that they equipment did not require setting up each time.

Improving the accessibility to – and within - the Sports Park (as well as the existing buildings) for scooter users, wheelchair users, parents with prams etc. was identified as a potential improvement that may increase casual use of the Sports Park.

The Yackandandah Visitor Information Centre suggested that there was visitor interest in the Sports Park, particularly the nearby walking trails and Yackandandah Creek Walk. The greatest amount of feedback from users is the lack of signage. It was suggested that planting and signage along the creek could improve the amenity of the Sports Park.

It was suggested that the plan consider the “Park” users not just sports use.

22/11/07


Future vision and function

The meeting suggested the Sports Park should:

be a community recreation facility

provide for a wide range of interests in the one space – this would also increase its popularity and usage

better reflect its name Sports “PARK” – park areas also need attention, particularly along the creek

be retained as “country” as possible

retain walking tracks and natural landscape

restrict the level of building development so as not to impact on its scenic qualities

consider providing for medium scale functions and events (eg. up to about 80 people) to better provide a diversity of size in venues for the town.

Potential new users

The following potential new uses of the Sports Park were identified.

Camping

Potential overflow camping for the Yackandandah Folk Festival was suggested as a possible use. However, the meeting agreed that camping was not a priority activity, and that general camping should not be encouraged. Camping without permission from Council is currently illegal in the Sports Park.

It was agreed however, that camping by sports clubs or regular user groups for one-off events would be an acceptable use (eg. Adult Riding Club events and the Great Victorian Bike Ride). Provision of additional permanent toilets and showers for these groups was not recommended in the short-term. Additionally, it was recommended that single large event camping groups should be in a position to bring temporary facilities to cater for themselves.

Cleaning and rubbish removal were raised as issues to consider when allowing for event based camping.

Riding

Horse and bicycle riding (MTB) activities through and ending at the Sports Park are increasing in popularity.

Indoor sports hall

The height of the sports hall may be 8m to the ceiling trusses, which could impact on the type of activities and sports suitable for its use. Badminton, netball, indoor soccer and volleyball were all suggested as possible activities. The size of the existing space is likely to provide constraints for netball and basketball (eg. appropriate run-off areas).

Soccer

Soccer is a potential winter user of the Sports Park. A pitch has been measured out and the sports ground could cater for a 90m x 45m pitch inside the boundary fence that avoids the turf wicket. The turf wicket must be protected from winter sports users.

The addition of floodlights might add to more training uses during winter (eg. soccer training).

22/11/07


Other activities

The following other activities were also suggested to be accommodated within the Sports Park and its facilities.

All forms of recreation activity.

Facilities for younger children, a designated space for those who aren’t participating in formal activities.

The Night Netball Association.

Choir (up to 70 in number).

Pilates (it has had to stop elsewhere due to restriction of their current space)

Little Athletics - could line mark a track on the oval. It would be used by the school as they can walk to the Sports Park. They already use it once a year for an athletics carnival.

The addition of floodlights might add to more training uses during winter (eg. soccer training).

A playground was discussed; some people agreed it would be a maintenance burden and the rich natural environment already has high play value.

Regional context

The meeting suggested that the Master Plan needed to focus regionally, and not just locally. Suggested regional context issues included the following.

The Sports Park attracts a range of users from other regional and metropolitan areas. It has a wide reaching event catchment (eg. equestrian events, finals ground for cricket association).

Rail and walking trail connections (eg. along creek).

DSE land already used by MTB and horse riders.

Consider the new residential development and sub-divisions around Yackandandah.

Local context

Some suggestions regarding the local context included the following.

Sports Park must retain and enhance the natural characteristics of the park and surrounds.

Should look at Social Family Recreation space and bringing all groups and families together.

2 sporting grounds are required in Yackandandah, particularly with pressure for grounds coming from soccer. Soccer could co-exist with cricket at the Sports Park, as the other ground would be used by football on Saturdays and Sundays.

Land zoning and ownership of adjacent parcels should be considered. Acquisition of the private land and relevant DSE parcels should not be ruled out for future expansion.

22/11/07


Priorities

The meeting agreed the following items as future priorities for the Master Plan to consider.

1. Complete the indoor sports hall (including change rooms and canteen).

2. Consider the management structure for new facilities/users (ie. collecting monies).

3. Public toilets – accessible from the outside.

4. Assurance of long-term use for clubs following investment.

5. Future levels of accessibility of all facilities.

6. Maintenance and improvement of circulation and driveways.

7. Signage improvements.

8. Providing, retaining and maintaining “park” areas.

9. Clean-up and then maintain the wetland area.

Management

Suggestions or opportunities for future management included engaging Greencorp or Landcare to help with vegetation management issues. They are currently working on paths within the township.

The current management model has each group looking after their specific facilities, which in the longer term may not be appropriate with a new major indoor facility being operational. It was suggested that other similar facilities be reviewed to identify a possible or suitable management model.

22/11/07


Appendix 3: Community

Submissions

Written submissions were received from the following community groups and individuals:

Yackandandah Night Netball Association

Andrew Cudars

Patten Bridge

Mark McKenzie-McHarg

Yackandandah Riding Club

Colin Barnard

Paula Mobach, Upper Hume Community Health Service and Healthy Living Group.

22/11/07


Appendix 4:

Ecowise Environmental Report

Background

Ecowise was engaged to perform a site inspection and provide advice to @leisure on water aspects of Yackandandah Sports Park. Specifically, Ecowise was asked to review and advise on:

existing sources of water supply;

current water management and systems on site;

opportunities for future efficiencies and or water reuse/recycling;

potential locations for rainwater harvesting facilities if deemed appropriate, and;

issues/opportunities/relationships associated with the wetland area.

Existing sources of water supply

Presently water for the facility is sourced from two locations. The stream on the northern boundary is used for irrigation of the playing surface and provides the majority of the water used on site. Reticulated town water is used for the internal facilities, which consists of approximately five toilets and two kitchenette facilities in the upstairs club room and the adjacent tennis centre. The annual average consumption for the town supply is 100 kL.

Estimates for the volume of water currently irrigated to the playing surface range between 420 kL – 1,500 kL per annum, taken from the stream from November to March. The uncertainty is due to no water meter being installed, and figures are based upon the minimal estimated requirement and the maximum irrigation possible based upon likely flow rates and irrigation times.

Current water management and use systems on site

At present the irrigation of the cricket playing surface is performed from midnight for a period of 4 – 6 hours, 2 – 3 times per week. It is speculated by the irrigator that due to the pervious nature of the sub soil, and the proximity of the irrigated surface to the creek, that any water not taken up by the grass or stored in the soil pores will rapidly re-enter the stream. There is no water meter installed at the pump shed to maintain a record of the total water pumped for irrigation.

The kitchenette facilities and toilet facilities in the club room and in the tennis centre are used during functions, and club competitions. At present, the wastewater from the club rooms is treated in an in-ground septic tank system, with the treated water discharged to the subsoil at the south east of the oval. Wastewater from the tennis centre is also treated in a separate septic tank system, the exact location of which is unknown. The plans for the proposed development of the sports park facility show extra toilet facilities to be installed on ground level adjacent to the internal stairway. It is assumed that these facilities will use the reticulated town supply and discharge to the same septic tank system as the existing upstairs toilets.

Opportunities for future efficiencies and/or water reuse/recycling

It may be possible to use the treated water from the septic tank system to irrigate the playing surfaces provided the treated water is treated and applied suitably, however treatment and verification of effluent quality can be an expensive process. Based upon the anticipated yields this is unlikely to be a cost effective method of irrigation.

22/11/07


Water Efficiency Measures (W.E.M)

Identified areas for improvements at the clubrooms and tennis centre include:

Replacement of all toilet cisterns with water efficient 6/3 L dual flush cisterns (NB the ladies toilet in the tennis centre is already a 6/3 L cistern)

Replacement of urinal flush cisterns with water efficient 2 L flush cisterns

Installation of aerator taps within all toilet and kitchenette basins with a maximum flow rate of 9 L/min

These alterations can be performed simply and will have an immediate impact on the amount of town water used. Grants may be available to offset the capital costs of these water efficiency measures. Future toilet facilities should all be at least equivalent to a 6 / 3 L standard, and if possible a 4.5 / 2 L standard. It is anticipated that such actions will reduce the potable water consumption on site by up to 40%.

Costs associated with these measures should be sought from a suitable plumbing contractor, however estimates for the replacement of three cisterns, three taps and two urinals is approximately $3,000. Estimated annul water savings is 40 kL.

Rainwater harvesting opportunities

There are several different options for collection and use of rainwater. A selection of opriona are presented below. Rainwater could potentially be collected from any or all of the roof areas including the:

sports pavilion (roof area 1200 m2);

tennis centre (roof area 110 m2);

scout building (roof area 80 m2); and,

riding club building (roof area 40 m2).

Rainfall data used for analysis was taken from the Bureau of Meteorology website, using the weather station at Beechworth. It is assumed that the rainfall records for Beechworth and Yackandandah are similar.

The major use of the rainwater is likely to be irrigation. The minimum irrigation requirement for the summer period over the entire oval is approximately 360 kl. Ecowise believe that the risks associated with using the rainwater for drinking water outweigh any benefits. Each rainwater harvest location is described below, with yields, possible uses and the problems and estimated costs of each option.

Costs of rainwater harvesting per kL are generated by considering the demand for water for a particular use, and the ability for the system to harvest and store the water for use when required.

The drawing on the following pages illustrates the likely locations and relative sizes of the rainwater storage options.

22/11/07


Sports Pavillion (Initiative A)

Potential yield: Over 1,000 kL/a based upon average rainfall records.

Potential problems: No existing gutters on majority of roof area

High roof line will increase cost of installing gutters

Advantages: High roof line means storage tank can be located almost anywhere on site, and gravity fed to existing irrigation pump

Suggested Uses: Option A1. Irrigation

A2. Irrigation plus toilet flushing

A1. Costs: Ground preparation $ 2,000

Tank delivery and installation (250 kL) $16,000

Installation of gutters / pipe work to tanks $ 9,000

Connection from storage to irrigation system* $ 1,500

Total estimated costs $28,500

Total estimated water savings 360 kL/a

(approximately $3.95 / kL over 20 years)

* The costing is based upon the use of the existing irrigation pump and shed to irrigate the field. It is assumed that the location of the tank will allow a gravity feed to the suction line of the pump. As an optional backup, the suction line could have a valve inserted which would allow the pump to draw from creek water in the unlikely case of rainwater shortages.

A2. Costs: Includes costs as A1 above $28,500

Pump for toilets $ 3,000

Plumbing modifications $ 3,000




Tennis Centre (Initiative B)

Potential yield: Over 100 kL/a based upon average rainfall records.

Potential problems: No existing gutters on 50% of roof area

Low roof line restricts placement of water tank

Advantages: Easy installation of gutters

Suggested Uses: Option B1. Supplement to irrigation water

B2. Irrigation supplement plus tennis centre toilets

B3. Tennis centre toilet flushing only

22/11/07


B1. Costs: Ground preparation $ 1,000

Tank delivery and installation (60 kL) $ 8,500


Connection from storage to irrigation system* $ 1,500




* The costing is based upon the use of the existing irrigation pump and shed to irrigate the field. It is assumed that the location of the tank will allow a gravity feed to the suction line of the pump. As an optional backup, the suction line could have a valve inserted which would allow the pump to draw from creek water in the unlikely case of rainwater shortages.

B2. Costs: Includes costs as B1 above $12,500






B3. Costs: Ground preparation $ 500





Total estimated costs $ 5,500



22/11/07


Scout Building (Initiative C)

Potential yield: Over 80 kL/a based upon average rainfall records.

Potential problems: Low roof line restricts placement of water tank and water uses

Advantages: Gutters already installed

Suggested Uses: Option C1. Supplement to irrigation water

C2. Use in Scout hall if required (toilets?)

C1. Costs: Ground preparation $ 500



Pump to irrigation area $ 1,500

Connection from storage to irrigation system $ 1,000




C2. Costs: Ground Preparation $ 500


Installation of gutters / pipe work to tanks $ 500

Connection from storage to end use $ 1,000


Total estimated water available for use 5 kL/a


Equestrian shed (Initiative D)

Potential yield: Approximately 40 kL/a based upon average rainfall records.

Potential problems: Low roof line restricts placement of water tank

Not enough water use to justify spending

Remote from major water uses on site

Advantages: Easy installation of gutters

Low cost

Suggested Uses: Option D1. Washing water

D1. Costs: Ground preparation $ 300

Tank delivery and installation (1.5 kL) $ 1,000

Installation of gutters / pipe work to tanks $ 200


Total estimated water use 5 kL/a


22/11/07


Summary

Table 1 shows the above options presented with the costs to allow ease of comparison. The costs associated with each of the options are initial budget estimates, and further detailed studies will need to be performed to ensure that the estimates and assumptions in this report are accurate.

Table 1. Summary table of presented options

Ecowise recommends that options A1 and the Water Efficiency Measures (W.E.M) are implemented, this will result in a total cost of approximately $33,000, and will provide savings of approximately 400 kL/a. Whilst the costs of the water on a per kL basis may seem higher than retail prices, there may be opportunity to reduce the cost through funding from state and local government initiatives, and through fundraising opportunities, thus reducing the capital costs. Furthermore, the present cost of water could possibly rise with continued shortages.

The placement of the storage tanks is only an issue for the largest tank, which would be connected to the Sports Pavilion. Ecowise suggests that a suitable location is likely to be near the North West corner of the tennis courts, which may minimise the stormwater transport distance and pumping requirements. Investigations will need to be performed to assure the placement of the tank is not within flood areas, provides sufficient hydraulic gradient for gravity feeding the existing irrigation pump, and to ensure that it is not on public land.

At the time of the inspection the wetland area was dry. Ecowise do not believe that using the wetland area for water treatment or storage are ideal options. Chemical and biological monitoring over a period of several years is needed to establish the species present in the wetland, and to gauge the effects of altering the flow patterns within the wetland before. One option that should be investigated that may show a positive benefit to the wetland is the discharge of excess water from roof areas and tank overflows to the wetland area.

22/11/07


Final Yack Sports Park MP - Shire of Indigo · 2 2 /1 07 YACKANDANDAH SPORTS PARK MASTER PLAN 1...

Documents

Transcript of Final Yack Sports Park MP - Shire of Indigo · 2 2 /1 07 YACKANDANDAH SPORTS PARK MASTER PLAN 1...