Lyndoch turf wicket development

Work is underway to ensure various sporting codes will continue to use the Lyndoch Oval as the cricket and rugby seasons transition.

The Barossa Council says a new cricket turf wicket installed at the oval over summer has led to issues with the overall oval gradient, leaving it unsuitable for the other co-located field sports.

Mayor Bim Lange says all stakeholders have come to the table quickly to find a workable solution that ensures continued use of the oval for everyone.

“Thanks to the South Australian Cricket Association as well for their valuable input and expertise over recent days to assist our discussions and planning from here,” he said.

Stage one will see the turf wicket decommissioned to facilitate the start of the Barossa Rams season, while Stage two will see a re-designed outfield and turf wicket reinstated in Spring.

Scheduling will be subject to ongoing discussion and agreement with the cricket, rugby and little athletics clubs.

Mayor Lange thanked SACA and user groups for their constructive approach to a challenging situation.

“We know from experience that where sports are co-located, there are different pressure points for different sports,” he said.

“While we acknowledge the disruptions to ‘business as usual’, the end result will be a fully customised turf wicket at Lyndoch. This supports our aspiration to build the Barossa as a premier sports tourism destination by redeveloping our central sporting venues and facilities.”