Cricketers at Brierly Christ Church Cricket Club are benefitting from better pitches and cheaper operating costs thanks to a new automated irrigation system.
Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney formally opened the upgraded system today, made possible thanks to a $100,000 grant from the Andrews Labor Government.
The old irrigation system had to be manually operated during the day. This was labour intensive, led to water evaporation, and reduced the availability of the pitches during watering periods.
The new system can be programmed to run overnight, increasing watering efficiency and utilisation, and increasing available playing hours on the pitches.
Work involved re-establishing a bore water system to the reserve, and the installation of an automatic irrigation system to the main oval.
This will significantly lower the club’s water costs and eliminate the many hours spent by volunteers having to manually move around the old watering system.
The improved grounds will help the club attract new members, and manage significant population growth in the city’s north-east growth corridor.
Ms Tierney acknowledged project partners Warrnambool City Council and the cricket club for their commitment and contribution to the new watering system.
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney
“This irrigation system is a win-win for the Brierly Christ Church Cricket Club and the environment.”
“We’re proud to be delivering the facilities and infrastructure our community and clubs need to grow and welcome more members than ever before.”
“Next month is the Premier’s Active April – and I encourage everyone here in Warrnambool to get out there and get active.”