Ready for kick-off! New synthetic pitch to boost soccer participation

Published on 05 August 2025

The City of Whittlesea has given grassroots soccer a boost with the construction of a new FIFA-accredited synthetic soccer pitch at Partridge Recreation Reserve in Lalor.

The $2.6 million project, fully funded by Council, converted a natural grass pitch into a synthetic surface with improved drainage, fencing and the latest in LED sports lighting.

Moving to an all-weather synthetic pitch has increased usage from about 20 hours a week to more than 40 hours a week and reduced training and match day cancellations.

The project demonstrates Council’s commitment to increasing participation, particularly among women and girls, in organised sport through the provision of purpose-built facilities.

Tenant Mill Park Soccer Club, as well as other clubs and organisations, are now perfectly placed to expand their development programs and provide new pathways for players.

The project had a clear focus on innovation and sustainability, with repurposed olive pith – a waste product from the olive oil industry – used as an organic infill material.

Furthermore, an estimated 145 tonnes of plastic and rubber waste were diverted from landfill and used to create the pitch’s underlay.

Quotes attributable to City of Whittlesea Mayor, Councillor Martin Taylor:

“It was fantastic to visit the facility recently and see dozens of enthusiastic junior players training under lights on the new pitch.

“This project aligns with the principles in Council’s Long-Term Community Infrastructure Plan of enabling participation by people of all ages.

“This project is a significant investment in the health and wellbeing of our community and I’m confident the benefits will be felt for many years to come.”