doug lindsay recreation reserve, creswick redevelopment ... · stormwater storage ponds not done...

Hepburn Shire

Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve, Creswick

Redevelopment Masterplan

Final Report

Produced by:

ASR Research Pty Ltd Leisure Planners

Mike Smith and Associates Landscape Architects

June 2018

Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve Redevelopment Masterplan Final Report

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION ONE - INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 3 1.1 Purpose and Objectives of Study ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 3 1.2 Project Methodology ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 3 SECTION TWO - LITERATURE REVIEW ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 4 2.1 Documents .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 4 2.2 Outcomes .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 4 2.3 Review of the 2007 Masterplan .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 5 SECTION THREE - THE RESERVE ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 7 3.1 The Reserve ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 7 3.2 Management arrangement and maintenance responsibilities .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 8 3.3 Occupancy Arrangements ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 9 SECTION FOUR - EXISTING CONDITIONS/SITE ASSESSMENT .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 10 4.1 Attributes .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 10 4.2 Deficiencies ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 10 SECTION FIVE – DEMOGRAPHICS ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 12 5.1 2011 and 2016 Characteristics .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 12 5.2 Population Growth – Central Highlands Regional Growth Plan ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 13 5.3 Leisure and Sporting Trends ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 13 5.4 Implications for Masterplan ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 14 SECTION SIX - CONSULTATION ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 15 6.1 Combined meeting of COM and representatives of existing user groups ................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 15 6.2 COM .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 16 6.3 Current user groups................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 16 6.4 Peak Bodies ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 18 6.5 Local Sports Associations ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 18 6.6 Council Units ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 19 SECTION SEVEN – SUGGESTED IMPROVEMENTS AND ASSESSMENT OF MERIT........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 20 SECTION EIGHT - MASTERPLAN .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 24 8.1 Masterplan Objectives .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 24 8.2 Masterplan ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 24 APPENDICES .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 30 Appendix A – Literature Review .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 31


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SECTION ONE - INTRODUCTION

1.1 Purpose and Objectives of Study

The purpose of the study is to produce a plan to guide the redevelopment of Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve in Creswick. The objectives of the study are to:

• Review the status of the recommendations in the 2007 Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve Masterplan.

• Assess the condition of the reserve and its facilities from landscape, functionality, access, structural, environmental and safety perspectives.

• Identify the facility needs of existing and potential user groups and how these needs could be addressed.

• Investigate opportunities to enhance the passive spaces at the reserve.

• Prepare a masterplan for the reserve which contains a prioritised list of development works and cost estimates for these works.

1.2 Project Methodology

The methodology for the masterplan involved eight related stages:

• Stage 1 - Project Definition Meeting: A meeting was held with the Council staff to clarify the objectives of the masterplanning process and discussing in detail any

key/sensitive issues.

• Stage 2 - Literature Review: Relevant Council files, strategy documents and operational policies were reviewed.

• Stage 3 – Review of 2017 Masterplan: The status of the recommendations in the masterplan were reviewed – completed, not completed, partly completed – and an

assessment made about whether the not or partly completed actions should be included in the 2017 Masterplan.

• Stage 4 – Analysis of Leisure Trends/Demographic Projections: Relevant leisure and demographic trends were analysed and the implications of these characteristics

for the future development of the reserve were identified.

• Stage 5 - Audit of Existing Conditions/Use: The existing conditions at and use of the reserve were described.

• Stage 6 - Consultation: User clubs, peak sporting bodies, local sports associations, other interested groups, residents and relevant Council officers were asked, where

relevant, to provide information their sports and clubs, their use of the reserve and the improvements that are needed at the reserve.

• Stage 7 – Draft Report: The findings from the previous research were documented in a draft masterplan report. Included in this report were a list of the works

suggested by key stakeholders, an assessment of the merit of each works item, a set of recommended works and a preliminary masterplan. Council reviewed the

report and suggested deletions and additions were noted. The draft report and preliminary masterplan were amended in response to the Council’s feedback.

• Stage 8 - Final Report: The draft report and masterplan were publicly exhibited and feedback received. The report and masterplan were amended in response to

the feedback and was converted to a final report.


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SECTION TWO - LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Documents

The following documents/files were reviewed:

• Hepburn Shire Council, Council Plan 2013-2017

• Hepburn Shire Council, Municipal Public Health and Well-Being Plan 2013-2017

• Hepburn Shire Council, Recreation and Open Space Strategy 2016-2021

• Hepburn Shire Council, Disability Access and Inclusion Plan 2014-2016

• Hepburn Shire Council, Walking and Cycling Strategy 2011; Walking and Cycling Strategy, Priority Works 2017

• Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve Masterplan 2007

• AFL Victoria, Cricket Australia, Netball Victoria, FFV Facility Guidelines

• AFL Goldfields Regional Strategy 2017

2.2 Outcomes

The documents provide the following relevant information (see Appendix A for the detailed review):

• Council’s strategic objectives/activities for the period 2017 to 2021 and the actions it will take to achieve these objectives/activities.

• Council’s key priorities for enhancing the health and well-being of the Hepburn Shire community.

• Council’s planning principles for recreation activity and facility provision.

• A long term strategic plan for the provision, development, management and use of open space areas in Hepburn Shire.

• Council’s objectives with respect to improving opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in community life.

• The actions that Council will take to increase cycling and walking activity in Hepburn Shire.

• A detailed plan showing the proposed layout for and describing the proposed development works at Dong Lindsay Recreation Reserve.

• The AFL’s, NV’s, CA’s, FFV’s preferred standards for the infrastructure provided at active reserves.


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The implications of the documents for the Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve Masterplan are as follows:

• The key objectives, priorities and actions contained in the reserve masterplan should be consistent and guided by the strategic objectives, activities and actions

expressed in the Council Plan; these being:

– Renewing Council assets

– Providing great parks

– Improving tree management

– Encouraging participation in active and passive recreation

– Encouraging great female participation in sports

– Promoting water and energy efficiency.

• The masterplan should aim to implement the relevant actions of the Municipal Public Health and Well-Being Plan relating to encouraging increased participation in

recreation activity.

• The hierarchy and facility provision standards outlined in the Recreation and Open Space Strategy should be used when auditing the provision of facilities in the

reserve and making recommendations about new or redeveloped facilities.

• The specific recommendations contained in the Recreation and Open Space Strategy about Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve should be reviewed in the

masterplanning process and, if still valid, included in the redevelopment masterplan for the reserve.

• The masterplan should aim to improve the physical accessibility of the facilities in the reserve.

• The design guidelines for trails and walking paths contained in the Walking and Cycling Strategy should be used when designing future walking trails in the reserve.

• The recommendations made in the Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve Masterplan should be consistent with and informed by the Sports Facility Management Policy

(draft).

• The AFL Victoria, Cricket Australia, Netball Victoria, FFV Facility Guidelines should be taken into consideration when making decisions about the standard of facilities

to be provided at the reserve.

• The findings and recommendation of the AFL Goldfields Regional Strategy that relate Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve should be considered in the masterplanning

process.

2.3 Review of the 2007 Masterplan

The 2007 masterplan provides a concept plan for and lists the recommended works for the development of the Reserve. The status of the recommended works is described

in Table 1 below. 20 recommendations were made in the masterplan. 4 have been completed. 2 have been party completed. These should be reviewed in the masterplan


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process. 14 recommendations have not been acted on; 7 of these recommendations are no longer required, the remaining 7 should be considered for inclusion in the

masterplan.

Table 1 – Status of Masterplan

Proposed action Status Included in 2017 Masterplan

Controlled entry point off Anne St (including gate) Not done Should be considered for inclusion in masterplan

Playground, BBQ, picnic facilities, picnic pavilion and parking area Not done Should be considered for inclusion in masterplan

Construct parking along north-west side of 2nd soccer field Not done Should be considered for inclusion in masterplan

Stormwater storage ponds Not done Should be considered for inclusion in masterplan

Drainage corridor revegetated with indigenous understorey shrub and tree species Not done Should be considered for inclusion in masterplan

Access road off Bald Hills Rd for Bowling Club Not done Should be considered for inclusion in masterplan

Picnic facilities including paths and tables Not done Should be considered for inclusion in masterplan

Main entry point off Reed St with ticket box and central medium strip Partly completed – no medium strip To be reviewed in masterplan

Cricket nets with 4 bays 2 bay nets erected. Different location to that proposed in 2007 masterplan.

To be reviewed in masterplan

Landscaped to the south east of main oval Completed -

Football/cricket oval with road access and parking around oval Completed -

Synthetic grass bowling green Completed -

Football/cricket viewing area Completed but in different location -

Grass soccer training pitch (70mX50m) Not done No longer required

CFA training track Not done No longer required

Public toilet block near training track Not done No longer required

Pedestrian crossing between fire track and netball courts Not done No longer required

Grandstand Not done No longer required

Light horse arena Not done No longer required

Controlled entry point off Bald Hills Rd for emergency vehicles Not done No longer required


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SECTION THREE - THE RESERVE

3.1 The Reserve

Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve is a 15ha Crown land reserve located off Reed, Anne and Bald Hills Rd in Creswick. It is predominantly an active recreation reserve which

comprises a football/cricket oval with a synthetic wicket; large pavilion with veranda, bar, kitchen, canteen, function room, office, meeting rooms, medical rooms and player

and umpire changerooms; bowling green (synthetic) and clubhouse; two grass soccer fields, 3 lit netball courts (2 acrylic resin, 1 asphalt); a pavilion with changerooms serving

the netball and soccer fields; cricket nets; access roads; carpark areas and scoreboard. The Reserve is bounded by houses on all sides except for short sections of Bald Hills

Rd and Elizabeth St. Vehicles can enter and exit the reserve off Reed St. The reserve is currently used for community events and local level soccer, netball, football and cricket

(both competition and training).

Map ref Facility

1 Main entrance of Reed St

2 Netball courts (X3)

3 Netball/soccer pavilion

4 Soccer fields (X2)

5 Main pavilion

6 Bowls facility – clubhouse and synthetic green

7 Football/cricket oval

8 Scoreboard

9 Cricket nets

10 Car park areas

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2 3

4

5

6

7

8 9 10

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3.2 Management arrangements and maintenance responsibilities

Hepburn Shire Council is the Committee of Management for the Reserve under the Crown Land Reserve Act. The facilities are leased to the Doug Lindsay Sports and

Community Management Association (an incorporated association). The Association is responsible for approving the use of the reserve, setting and collecting fees and

liaising with the user clubs and Council.

The responsibilities of the Council and Committee with respect to the maintenance of the Reserve are outlined in the lease agreement. The key responsibilities are as follows:

Table 2 – Management and maintenance responsibilities

Organisation

Responsibilities/Tasks

Hepburn Shire Council Maintaining the: − Playing fields: irrigation, drainage, mowing, fertilising, top dressing, aeration and other tasks − Paths, roads, carparks and associated drainage Renewing/replacing: − Roof, gutters and downpipes − Perimeter fencing around the reserve Undertaking major structural maintenance works on buildings Undertaking landscaping and park maintenance outside of 10m from the buildings in the reserve Providing and emptying the litter bins

Doug Lindsay Sports and Community Management Association

Minor maintenance of buildings Repair due to misuse Maintaining the buildings including painting (other than major structural works) Maintaining, cleaning, renewing/replacing: − External structures – coaches’ boxes, ticket box, goal posts, cricket nets, ovals and ground fencing − Heating, cooling and ventilation systems − Doors and windows − Floor coverings − Appliances − Fixtures and fillings − Lights − Grease traps Cleaning gutters and downpipes Ensuring reserve is kept in a clean and tidy condition Landscaping the area and maintaining the garden beds within 10m of buildings


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3.3 Occupancy Arrangements

The occupancy arrangements between the COM and the clubs using Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve are outlined below. The clubs are required to ensure that the facilities

they use are kept clean and tidy and repairing or meeting the cost of repair of any damage that they have caused (other than fair wear and tear).

Table 3 – Occupancy arrangements

Organisation Facilities used Occupancy arrangement Start Duration Expires Fee to Committee

Creswick Football Netball club Playing field, main pavilion, netball courts, netball soccer pavilion, carpark areas

Seasonal allocation 31 March 6 months 30 September $5K

Creswick Cricket Club Playing field, cricket nets, main pavilion, carpark areas

Seasonal allocation 1 October 6 months 31 March $500

Creswick Bowls Club Bowls clubhouse and synthetic green, carpark areas

Annual use 1 January 12 months 31 December $5K

Creswick Soccer Club Soccer fields, netball soccer pavilion, carpark areas, canteen in main pavilion

Seasonal allocation 31 March 6 months 30 September $2K

The Reserve is used casually by walkers and community groups for no cost. The social rooms and playing fields are hired to casual users and community groups for fixed hire

fees.


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SECTION FOUR - EXISTING CONDITIONS/SITE ASSESSMENT

The condition assessment/site analysis indicated that Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve has the following attributes and deficiencies:

4.1 Attributes

• Large open reserve with multiple pedestrian entry points and potential for at least three vehicle entry points.

• Well maintained gravel access roads and carpark areas.

• Good size irrigated oval - 165m X 140m – with an even surface and thick grass cover.

• High standard floodlights over the oval.

• Three compliant and well-maintained netball courts.

• Full sized soccer fields - one irrigated with an even surface and thick grass cover.

• Full size, high quality synthetic bowling green.

• Access road around the oval. Parking available around parts of the soccer fields and the oval (except for the area at the front of the main pavilion).

• High quality main pavilion with good sized social, administration, change, kitchen and canteen areas.

• Large terraced undercover spectator area off the main pavilion.

• High quality bowls clubhouse with good sized kitchen, bar and social room.

• A netball/soccer pavilion located close to the soccer field and netball courts.

• Good quality cricket nets.

4.2 Deficiencies

1. There is only one formal entrance for vehicles to the reserve – off Luttet St.

2. The entrance is visually unappealing and not divided by a median strip.

3. The access roads and carpark are unsealed.

4. Vehicle movement in the reserve is poorly controlled. Carparks are not lined and there are no traffic direction lines.

5. The second soccer field is not irrigated. The surface is uneven and the grass cover is patchy.

6. The football oval is poorly drained. The drains along the eastern boundary of the football oval do not work effectively.

7. The north-western end of the main soccer field is poorly drained.

8. The reserve lacks vegetation and passive recreation facilities like pathways, playgrounds, picnic spaces, park furniture etc.


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9. The umpires and player changerooms in the netball/soccer and main pavilions are not female friendly.

10. The change facilities in the netball/soccer pavilion are small and dated.

11. The scoreboard is old and in poor condition.

12. Security lighting around the buildings and carpark areas is poor.

Plan A – Existing Conditions Plan

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1 2 8

7

6

5

4

3

3

10 9

11

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SECTION FIVE – DEMOGRAPHICS

5.1 2011 and 2016 Characteristics

Table 4 provides a comparison of the demographic characteristics of Creswick and Hepburn Shire as detailed in the 2011 and 2016 census. The data indicates the following

(note: the boundaries of Creswick differ are not the same in both censuses):

• Creswick’s population increased slightly between 2011-2017.

• Creswick’s child and youth populations as proportions of total population

are slightly larger than the Shire’s. However, they declined between 2011-

16.

• Creswick’s young adult population as a proportion of total population is

larger than the Shire’s.

• Creswick got considerably older between 2011-2016. The median age

rose from 43 to 48 and the older adult population as a proportion of total

population increased by close 4%. 1 in 5 Creswick residents are now aged

70+ years.

• Creswick’s has a high proportion of one parent families compared to

Hepburn Shire (20% compared to 10% in 2011 and 18% compared to 15%

in 2016).

Table 4 – Demographic characteristics: Creswick Characteristic Creswick Hepburn Shire

2011 2016 2011 2016

Est. population 2011 2942 3170 14367 15330

Child population (0-9 years) as % of total population 12.4 11.2 11.7 10.2

Youth population (10-19 years) as % of total population 12.4 9.9 10.9 9.8

Young adult population (20-39 years) as % of total population 20.4 19.4 17.6 15.9

Middle adult population (40-59 years) as % of total population 26.3 26.0 31.8 30.2

Older middle adult population (60-69 years) as % of total population 13.2 14.1 15.1 18.1

Older adult (70+) as % of total population 15.5 19.3 13.8 15.9

Median age (years) 43 48 46 50

Australian born as % of total population 85.1 79.3 81.4 76.1

2011 2016


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Characteristic Creswick Hepburn Shire

2011 2016 2011 2016

Average household size 2.3 people 2.3 people 2.3 people 2.2

SEIFA index 940 (234th out of 1515 – with 1 being the lowest)

NA 980 (28th out of 80 – with 1 being the lowest)

NA

Median weekly household income $860 $963 $850 $996

Couple family with children as % of all households 37.2 37.8 35.5 35.1

One parent families as % of all households 20.0 18.3 10.2 14.9

Sole person households as % of all households 31.6 33.6 31.1 32.4

5.2 Population Growth – Central Highlands Regional Growth Plan

The Central Highlands Regional Growth Plan identifies where and when population growth will occur in the Central Highlands Region over the next few decades. The Plan

projects that the population will increase from 169,300 to 223,500 by 2031. It indicates that most of the increase will occur in Ballarat (33,000). Hepburn Shire is projected

to grow by 3,500.

The Plan describes the ‘settlement role’ of the townships in the Region. The Plan nominates 5 roles – regional city, regional centre, town, small town and rural settlement.

Creswick is categorised as a town. The Plan identifies the towns that have growth potential. Creswick is identified because of its proximity to Ballarat and its location on the

Ballarat-Maryborough railway line. The Plan does not quantify the potential population increase. The Plan makes the comment that ‘the need for services (including

recreational services) in Creswick should be monitored to ensure appropriate facilities are available to service the Town’s growth and that of surrounding communities’.

5.3 Leisure and Sporting Trends

There are several leisure and sporting trends which should be taken into consideration in the masterplan. These are as follows:

General Leisure Trends - Informal recreation

• More people are choosing to recreate in informal and unstructured ways. Consequently, activities such as recreational cycling, jogging and walking in recreation

reserves for exercise and pleasure are becoming more prevalent.

• The rate of pet ownership, particularly as companion animals for older adults, is increasing. Exercising dogs in parks has become a popular activity.

• The popularity of activities that families can participate in together such as picnicking and similar outdoor activities continues to grow.

• Generally, adults are remaining fitter and more active until later in life. This is leading to more frequent use of open space areas for walking, relaxation and social

activities.


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• The use of recreation reserves for group fitness programs is growing. The use of rural recreation reserves for low level camping is also increasing, particularly by

people in self-contained recreation vehicles.

General and Local Leisure Participation Trends - Active sport (confined to sports currently or proposed to be played at Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve)

• Participation in Australian football across Victoria is increasing. However, not all parts of Victoria have experienced an increase. Some rural areas have experienced

a decline and, as a result, some clubs and leagues have folded or merged. Female football is the fastest growing form of the game. Female team numbers have

increased significantly over the past 5 years with the main increase in junior girls’ football.

• Participation in cricket in Victoria is also increasing. But like football, many rural districts have experienced a decline in player numbers and some clubs and

associations have folded and merged (e.g. the Daylesford Association, Hepburn Cricket Club).

• The netball component of football/netball leagues remain very strong. Some leagues are increasing the number of grades they offer and many clubs are increasing

their team numbers.

• Soccer participation is growing quickly, particularly in low age juniors and junior girls. Soccer’s reach into rural areas is expanding. Most regional cities have soccer

competitions and soccer clubs. Some towns on the fringe of these regional cities, like Creswick, are also establishing soccer clubs.

• Participation in lawn bowls was trending down but has stabilised since 2012.

5.4 Implications for Masterplan

The implications of the Creswick’s demographic characteristics and potential population growth or the masterplan are as follows:

• The growing population will place additional general demand on the Reserve. This demand may grow to the extent that additional change facilities could be required.

• The demand generated by population growth may be offset by the decline in the size of the youth and young adult populations in Creswick – the main age cohorts

for active sports. It may also be offset by the declining participation trends for football and cricket in rural areas. Conversely, the growing popularity of the netball

component of the football/netball league will create additional demand for the reserve’s netball facilities.

• The continued ageing of the Creswick community and the growing popularity of activities such as walking for exercise and strolling will heighten the need for passive

recreation spaces/facilities in the reserve, such as pathways, park furniture, shade and shelter, a men’s shed etc.

• The continued ageing of the community will also increase the demand for active recreation activities that are popular with older adults such as lawn bowls, gentle

exercise groups etc.

• The number of people using Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve to walk their dogs and for other passive activities is likely to increase over the next decade. Facilities

should be provided in the reserve to support this activity such as bag dispensers, pathways and seating.


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SECTION SIX - CONSULTATION

6.1 Combined meeting of COM and representatives of existing user groups

The participants were asked to list the works they required at the Reserve and nominate the priority of these works. Their responses were as follows:

• Carparking/vehicle management plan (including implementation).

• Second entrance to reserve.

• Internal path network which links to key external pathways, including distance makers along paths and exercise stations.

• Improved drainage on football/cricket oval and main soccer field.

• Improved connection of main pavilion to soccer fields.

• Expanded change facilities in main pavilion facing soccer fields (2 new rooms).

• Water taps around the reserve.

• Electronic scoreboard.

• Public toilets which are accessible at all times.

• Second synthetic bowls green.

• Landscape/vegetation plan for reserve.

• Additional storage facilities.

• Second grass soccer field converted to synthetic surface.

• Medical rooms for soccer.

• Covered viewing area for soccer.

• Low chain wire fence around both soccer fields.

• Barrier fence behind goals on second soccer field.

• Playground facility.

• BBQ/Picnic facilities.

• More park furniture around the reserve in key viewing/relaxation areas.

• Improved safety/security lighting around soccer/netball buildings and carparking areas.

• Dog off leash zone.

• Water retention area.


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6.2 COM

The COM was asked to nominate the priority works at the reserve. Its response was as follows:




• Internal path network which links to key external pathways, including distance makers along paths and exercise stations.








6.3 Current user groups

Current user clubs were asked to nominate their priority works for the reserve. Their responses were:

Creswick Football/Netball Club





• Electronic scoreboard.




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• Improved safety/security lighting in carparking areas.

Creswick Bowls Club


• Second synthetic bowls green.

• Sun shade on clubhouse forecourt.

• New entrance off Bald Hills Rd to Bowls Facility.

• Improved safety/security lighting around carparking areas.

• Sealing the carpark area.

• Drain along southern end of the bowls facility to be filled in and made a carpark area.


• Improved safety/security lighting around carparking areas.

Creswick Cricket Club

• The Club is satisfied with the facilities at the reserve.

Creswick Soccer Club

• Carparking/vehicle management plan which includes a review of access and entrance points for both vehicles and pedestrians.

• Internal path network which links to key external pathways. Concrete at entrances.

• Synthetic grass soccer field to replace the second grass soccer field.

• Public toilets which are accessible at all times.


• Medical rooms for soccer.

• Covered viewing area for soccer.


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• Low chain wire fence around both soccer fields.

• Barrier fence behind goals on second soccer field.






6.4 Peak Bodies

The regional representatives of peak sporting bodies for cricket, football, netball and soccer in Victoria were asked to comment on the condition and functionality of the

facilities at the reserve. They indicated that the standard of the facilities was good – large pavilion, good change facilities, large oval, good spectator areas. They said that

the following improvements were needed:

• Umpires facilities made suitable for women.

• Amenities areas in changerooms made suitable for female players.

• Parking and traffic problems rectified.

6.5 Local Sports Associations

The Associations that run the competitions that the Creswick Football/Netball and Cricket clubs compete in (Central Highlands Football/Netball League and Ballarat Cricket

Association) were asked to comment on the strength of the Creswick clubs and the improvements that are needed at Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve. The Football/Netball

League indicated that Creswick FNC was strong club and very well run. It said that Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve was close to the best venue in the competition. It

mentioned a concern about the drainage of the oval. The Ballarat Umpires Association was also asked to comment on the standard of the facilities in the Reserve. It said the

oval surface was good and the facilities for umpires were reasonable. It suggested that the umpires’ rooms be redeveloped to make them suitable for both female and male

umpires.


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6.6 Council Units

The Council Units involved in the planning, management, development and maintenance of the Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve and liaison with the Reserve’s COM and

user clubs were asked to comment on the condition, functionality and suitability of the various facilities in the reserve and indicate the improvements/changes they thought

were needed.

Their suggested improvements were:

• Rectify the drainage issues with the oval.

• Provide improved change facilities for soccer.

• Better control vehicle movement and parking in the reserve.

• Improve the surface of second soccer field.

• Develop and implement a landscape/vegetation plan for the reserve.

• Provide passive recreation facilities in the reserve.

• Consider developing a stormwater retention area


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SECTION SEVEN – SUGGESTED IMPROVEMENTS AND ASSESSMENT OF MERIT

The following table contains a list of the suggested improvements and their sources and an assessment of the merits of the improvements.

SUGGESTED IMPROVEMENT SOURCE Assessment of merit

Lit

Review

Audit of reserve

COM User clubs

Peak bodies/ Sports ass’tions

Council units

Improve and make safe vehicle movement and parking in the reserve

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ The COM and user clubs agree that vehicle movement/safety is the most important issue at the reserve. They claim that during busy periods cars will park haphazardly around the reserve and will sometimes move in the wrong directions on the access roads. They say this erratic/poorly controlled parking and vehicle movement is unsafe and needs to be addressed as a matter of high priority.

Recommended

Create a second entrance to the reserve ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ Entrances could be created off Bald Hills Rd and/or Anne St. The entrance off Anne St would be relatively simple to create. The entrance of Bald Hills Rd may be more complex because of the embankment, the ridge and the electricity pole.

Both entrances would be beneficial. Anne St would provide easy ingress and egress for soccer vehicles. Bald Hills Rd would provide easy ingress and egress for bowls vehicles and another exit point for football/cricket/netball.

Recommended

Prepare a landscape plan for the Reserve. The plan would identify the following:

• The location, type and health of the vegetation in the Reserve

• Recommendations relating to: − Improving and caring for the

existing vegetation (if feasible) − Introducing new vegetation into the

reserve; species, location, care.

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ The reserve has very little vegetation and what it has is of poor quality. More vegetation is needed, particularly to improve the appearance of the reserve.

The landscape plan would recommend what vegetation should be retained, removed and introduced. It would also indicate how the vegetation should be cared for.

This would be a valuable resource for Council and the Reserve COM.

Recommended

Construct an internal path network which links to key external pathways and includes distance markers and exercise stations.

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ The provision of a path network would encourage more passive use of the reserve and encourage residents to be more physically active. The network should include a circuit with links to key facilities in the reserve, such as the pavilions and the entrances to the reserve. Distance markers and exercise stations would make the network more interesting for people using the oaths for exercise.

Recommended

Improve drainage on the main soccer field ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ The north-western end of the soccer field drains poorly. This should be rectified

Recommended


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Lit

Review

Audit of reserve

COM User clubs


Council units

Improve drainage on the main playing field

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ The football oval drains poorly. The cause need to be identified and rectified.

Recommended

Install irrigation on the second soccer field

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ The surface of the second field is uneven and the grass cover is patchy in some areas. Irrigation will help to address these issues.

Recommended

Convert turf cover on the soccer fields to Santa Ana couch

✓ The Parks Unit recommends that the existing grass species be replaced with Santa Ana couch. It says it now has the technology (irrigation controller, soil analyser) to successfully grow this species. This species will use less water and provide the thickest and most durable annual grass cover.

Recommended

Extend the main pavilion to provide two additional changerooms which face the soccer fields

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ The soccer club has 9 teams (1 senior and 8 junior) and 120 players (105 junior). 30 are female.

The club has grown by 5 teams and 62 players since 2012. The club expects its team and player numbers to continue to increase. It anticipates that it will field 2 more teams next year – including a women’s side.

Currently the club has access to 3 changerooms in the netball soccer pavilion and can use the changerooms serving the football oval. The changerooms in the netball soccer pavilion are small and are not female friendly. The main changerooms are large but are also not female friendly. They also open out to the football oval not the soccer field. Better, larger and female friendly change facilities are needed for soccer. Options are to construct 2 new changerooms off the back of the football pavilion. These rooms could use the existing amenities. Another option is to expand and redevelop the existing netball soccer pavilion. Both options need to be explored in more detail.

Recommended that two options be further explored - 1) new changerooms off the back of existing football pavilion, 2) expansion and redevelopment of existing netball soccer pavilion

Make the amenities areas in the changerooms in the main pavilion female friendly

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ The amenities areas have open showers and urinals. The urinals should be removed and cubicle showers installed. This should be undertaken when and if there is a firm prospect of the reserve being used for women’s football.

Recommended

Install an electronic scoreboard ✓ ✓ The existing scoreboard is old and will need to be replaced at some time in the near future. It should be replaced with an electronic scoreboard.

Recommended


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Lit

Review

Audit of reserve

COM User clubs


Council units

Install a second synthetic bowling green ✓ ✓ ✓ The original masterplan makes provision for a second synthetic green. The green should be included in the updated masterplan and provided when feasible – i.e. funding is available and there is sufficient demand.

Recommended

Provide publicly accessible toilets at the reserve

✓ Toilets are only available when sport is being played at the reserve. Toilets will be needed at other times, particularly as more residents use the walking paths, playgrounds etc. COM should look at how the toilets in the main pavilion can be opened for longer periods.

Recommended

Erect barrier fences behind the goals on the second soccer field

✓ The barrier fences will prevent balls being kicked into the netball and pavilion areas at the south-eastern end of the field and the proposed carpark/access road at the north-western end of the ground. They will improve safety for spectators and help to speed up the game as balls will not have be retrieved.

Recommended

Replace the pipe and rail fence around the goals with a low chain mesh fence

✓ The chain mesh fence will help to retain most balls within the playing field. They will improve safety and help to speed up the game as balls will not have be retrieved as often. They will also improve the appearance of the fields.

Recommended

Convert one of the soccer fields to synthetic grass

✓ The benefits of a synthetic field are significant – it can be used more than a grass field, does not get boggy or uneven and requires little to no water and maintenance. The disadvantages are that the surface has a high initial capital cost and will need to be replaced every 7-10 years, again at significant cost.

A synthetic field could be justified if it was replacing two or more grass fields or as an alternative to providing additional fields. This is not the case in Creswick where the field would be replacing an existing grass field. Also, from a population size perspective, a synthetic field cannot be justified in a town the size of Creswick.

Not recommended

Construct a playground and family BBQ facility

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ The reserve does not have a playground or BBQ facility. In the original masterplan, these facilities were to be situated where the cricket nets are now located. This site is no longer available. The vehicle management plan proposes that the area at the back of the main pavilion between the pavilion and the main soccer field be blocked off. This may be a suitable location for the playground.

Recommended


23


Lit

Review

Audit of reserve

COM User clubs


Council units

Install more park furniture around the reserve in key viewing and relaxation areas

✓ ✓ ✓ The provision of additional park furniture will improve the experiences of spectators and encourage more passive use of the reserve. The furniture (seating and tables) should be located in key viewing and relaxation points - around the playing fields, along the walking paths, in the BBQ area, near the playground etc

Recommended

Review the provision of security lighting around the buildings and carpark area in the reserve. Upgrade the lighting if required.

✓ ✓ The COM and user clubs advise that the areas around the main pavilion and the netball courts gets very dark at night. Additional security lighting is required.

Recommended


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SECTION EIGHT - MASTERPLAN

8.1 Masterplan Objectives

The aim of the masterplan is to provide a vision for how the reserve will look and function in the long term. The implementation of masterplan will achieve the following

objectives:

• Enhance the reserve’s capacity to be used for active sport.

• Enhance the appearance and safety of the reserve.

• Increase the scope and quality of residents’ passive recreation experiences in the reserve – walking, cycling, running, playing, relaxing etc.

• Enhance pedestrian movement through and within the reserve.

8.2 Masterplan

A concept plan detailing the recommended actions is provided in Plan 1 on page 25. A detailed plan providing more details about suggested tree species, path surfaces and

widths etc is provided in Plan 2 on page 26. A works plan listing the costs and proposed timelines for the works is provided in Table 5 on pages 26-27.

The costings provided in the works plan have been prepared by members of the consultant team (traffic engineer, landscape architect and leisure planner). The costings are

broad estimates only and have been based on the following:

• The consultants’ experience in costing similar works.

• Recent costings of comparable works.

• Costs provided by Council staff.

• The anticipated lengths and areas of paths, carparking areas, new or renovated buildings.

• Linear and square metre rates.

• Cost obtained from manufacturer, supplier and/or installer websites (e.g. electronic scoreboards, netting behind goal posts.

It should be noted that the costings are broad estimates only and will need to be firmed up through more detailed design and costing processes.

The timelines for works are described as high (1-4 years), medium (5-7 years) and low (8-10 years). These descriptions indicate the relative priorities of the works. High

priority has been given to works items that:


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• Enhance the safety of reserve users.

• Council has committed to and/or have been identified and strongly supported in a Council endorsed documents.

• Are significantly advanced in their planning.

• Relate to core facilities that enable sports to be played at the reserve - playing surface, lights and change facilities.

• Address significant deficits in facility provision or condition.

• Address significant functionality concerns.

Circumstances may arise where it may be more practical to undertake a low priority item above a medium or high priority item. For example, the State Government may

introduce a special funding program for the improvement of a facility type that is ranked in the masterplan as a low priority item. Council may choose to take advantage of

this funding and complete this item ahead of a medium or high priority item. Each works item has been assigned a responsible organisation. This organisation will be

responsible for progressing the action. Organisations external to Council will need to be involved in the implementation (including funding) of some of the actions. These

organisations include Government departments and agencies (e.g. SRV, VicRoads) and local committees of management and clubs. The organisations have been listed in the

‘potential funding sources’ columns of the works plans. The following acronyms/words are used in the works plans to identify the responsible organisations or funding

sources.

Acronym Meaning

HSC Hepburn Shire Council

Clubs User clubs/groups at reserves

COM Committee of Management

RDV Regional Development Victoria

SRV Sport and Recreation Victoria

DIRD Federal Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development


26

Table 5 – Redevelopment Masterplan: Works, Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve

Map ref no

Description Est. Cost

$

Priority Responsible Organisations

Potential Funding Sources

1 Undertake the following works to improve vehicle movement and safety in the Reserve (works to be undertaken in stages):

• Construct a median strip at the main entrance to the Reserve.

• Block off the area behind the football pavilion to cars. Remove the access track and revegetate with grass.

• Terminate the access on the eastern side of the playing field at a point behind the southern goals. Remove the access track and revegetate with grass.

• Create a formal access point off Bald Hills Road. Construct a gravel access road from this point to the Bowls Club carpark.

• Formalise the carparking (gravel) around the netball courts and soccer fields. Provide new carpark area to the north of the netball courts.

• Construct a traffic island in the main carpark area between the football pavilion and the soccer/netball pavilion.

• 20,000

• 10,000

• 15,000

• 45,000

• 200,000

• 15,000

High HSC

HSC

COM

2 Prepare and implement a landscape plan for the Reserve. The plan would identify the following:

• The location, type and health of the vegetation in the Reserve.

• Recommendations relating to: − Improving and caring for the existing vegetation (if feasible) − Introducing new vegetation into the reserve; species, location, care etc.

60,000 High COM HSC

COM

3 Construct an internal path network which links to key external pathways and includes distance markers and exercise stations – gravel surface but with core paths made asphalt at a later date. (could be undertaken in stages).

70,000 Medium HSC

HSC

COM

4 Convert turf cover on the soccer fields to Santa Ana couch 40,000 High HSC

HSC

COM

5 Erect lights over the soccer fields. 160,000 Underway HSC HSC

SRV Minor Facilities

6 Improve drainage on the main soccer field. 15,000 High HSC HSC

7 Install irrigation on the second soccer field. 25,000 Medium HSC HSC

8 Explore the following options for the provision of improved and additional change facilities for soccer –

1. New changerooms off the back of existing football pavilion

2. Expansion and redevelopment of existing netball soccer pavilion.

Concept - $10,000

Construction - 400,000

High

High

HSC

HSC

COM

Football/netball club

Soccer Club


9 Make the amenities areas in the changerooms in the football pavilion suitable for female players – cubicle showers, additional WCs and basins, urinals removed (when confirmed that the oval will be used for women’s football).

40,000 High Football/netball club HSC

Football/netball club


10 Install a second synthetic bowling green. 350,000 Medium Bowls Club Bowls Club

11 Install an electronic scoreboard. 30,000 Medium Football/netball club Football/netball club


27

Map ref no

Description Est. Cost

$

Priority Responsible Organisations

Potential Funding Sources

12 Erect barrier fences behind the goals on the second soccer field. 20,000 Medium Soccer club Soccer Club

13 Replace the pipe and rail fence around the soccer fields with a low chain mesh fence. 30,000 Low Soccer club Soccer Club

14 Construct a playground and family BBQ facility. 100,000 Medium HSC HSC

15 Install more park furniture around the reserve in key viewing and relaxation areas. 60,000 Medium HSC HSC

16 Review the provision of security lighting around the buildings and carpark area in the reserve. Upgrade the lighting if required.

15,000 High HSC HSC

17 Identify the works required to resolve the drainage issues on the main oval. Undertake these works (Parks Unit recommends that sand band and slit drains be installed along the western boundary of the oval).

120,000 High HSC HSC


28

Plan 1 – Concept Plan


29

Plan 2 – Detailed Plan


30

APPENDICES


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Appendix A – Literature Review

Document Purpose/relevance Implications for Doug Lindsay Rec Reserve Masterplan

Hepburn Shire Council, Proposed Council Plan 2017-2021

The Plan outlines the Council’s key strategic objectives and activities for the period 2017-2021 and the actions Council will take to achieve these objectives. The objectives, activities and actions that have relevance to the redevelopment of Trentham Recreation Reserve are as follows: Objectives

• Quality community infrastructure

• Active and engaged communities

• Sustainable environment Activities

• Responsibly manage our assets portfolio including roads and transport infrastructure, buildings, recreation and sporting facilities and public toilets by inspecting and monitoring maintenance and renewal needs. This is achieved through planning for and implementing asset renewal and upgrade programs or new facilities that meet community expectations such as hubs, streetscapes, road and building assets.

• Provide great community Parks and Open Space by greening our streets, managing tree safety and improving our town entrances, sporting ovals, botanic gardens and passive recreation spaces.

• Act to encourage improved health and wellbeing of residents and to reduce the risks associated with obesity and poor nutrition. This includes the provision, development and promotion of passive and active recreation facilities and options, and working with clubs and other agencies on planning for future developments and encouraging increased activity.

Actions

• Continue to invest in our assets at a level greater than depreciation by delivering the annual asset renewal capital works programs

• Complete program of essential safety measure improvements in Council Buildings to ensure compliance with the Building regulations.

• Deliver walking and cycling priority projects, including asset renewal works and expansion of footpaths and multi-use trails

• Upgrade and renew public toilet blocks to achieve consistent quality shire-wide and improve the level of servicing across the Shire that matches demand

• Implement priority items from current and newly developed recreation facility masterplans.

• Develop a program of improvement works and maintenance programs for reserves, botanic gardens and other recreation spaces.

• Implement improvements in accordance with agreed programs and masterplans to reserves, botanic gardens and other recreation spaces.

• Improve tree management including risk mitigation works and a proactive program of tree maintenance to improve longevity, safety, amenity and canopy coverage.

• Develop plans and seek funding to construct priority projects from Recreation Master Plans and the Walking and Cycling Strategy, and develop new masterplans to guide future investment.

• Continue to activate existing swimming pools and strengthen their role as a community resource, including responding to recommendations from the Creswick swimming facility review.

• Activate recreation facilities in conjunction with clubs and committees of management, while clearly understanding each other’s roles.

The key objectives, priorities and actions contained in the reserve masterplan should be consistent and guided by the strategic objectives, activities and actions expressed in the Council Plan; these being:

• Renewing Council assets.

• Providing great park.

• Improving tree management.

• Encouraging participation in active and passive recreation.

• Encouraging great female participation in sports.

• Promoting water and energy efficiency.


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• Promote the range of recreation options available in the Shire to increase participation in active recreation and reduce the risks associated with obesity.

• Promote the opportunities for female participation in sport and recreation in partnership with community groups.

• Implement water efficiency and water saving measures at recreation ovals, gardens and buildings, and support the community to progress the Trentham water security project.

• Develop and implement vegetation management plans on Council managed land and advocate to other public-land managers to reduce fire risk on their land.

Hepburn Shire Council, Public Health and Well-Being Plan 2013-2017

The plan outlines the Council’s key priorities with respect to enhancing the health and well-being of the Hepburn community and the actions it will take to address these priorities. The priority that relates to the Doug Lindsay Recreation Masterplan is disease prevention. The relevant actions are:

• Maintain and develop built environment to provide opportunities for increased rates of physical activity

• Implement walking and cycling projects

• Encourage physical activity through spaces, programs and affordable exercise • Continue to provide recreation facilities that offer a broad range of recreational activities.

The masterplan should aim to implement the relevant actions of the Municipal Public Health and Well Being Plan 2013-2017 relating to encouraging increased participation in recreation activity.

Hepburn Shire Council, Recreation and Open Space Strategy 2016-2021

This Document provides a long term strategic plan for the provision, development, management and use of recreation facilities and open space areas in Hepburn Shire. The Document outlines the Council’s goals, planning principles, objectives, strategies and specific actions for and recreation open space provision. The Strategy makes recommendations about the facilities that should be provided or considered for provision in Hepburn’s townships. It classifies the townships by population size. Creswick falls into the 1000-2000 people classification. Minimum facility provision for this classification level is as follows:

• Oval - sports oval and change facilities developed to a medium level. Standard of development to be guided by peak body facility guidelines.

• Netball courts - one or two netball courts per reserve preferably line marked for tennis.

• Tennis courts - up to 3 courts suitable for local competitions.

• Bowing green – one green – may have a synthetic surface.

• Golf course - may be provided.

• Shooting facilities - may be provided.

• Community hall - one in town and possibly one at the recreation reserve.

• Indoor court – may be provided. One court possibly shared with a school.

• Playground – yes within parks and recreation reserve.

• Walking and cycling trails – at least one off-road trail that should traverse the recreation reserve.

• Skate park/BMX track - may be provided subject to demand/distance from other skate parks. The Strategy also recommends a hierarchy for recreation reserves – neighbourhood, local and municipal - and lists the facilities that should be provided at each level of the hierarchy. Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve in classified as a local reserve. The facilities provided at this level are:

• Moderate pavilion featuring a kiosk, kitchen, function space, change facilities for players and umpires, trainers’ room/first aid, storage space.

• May be stand-alone or integrated netball, tennis facility and/or bowls facilities.

• Detached or integrated public toilets.

The hierarchy and provision standards outlined in the Recreation and Open Space Strategy 2016-2021 should be used when auditing the provision of facilities in the reserve and making recommendations about new or redeveloped facilities. The specific recommendations contained in the Recreation and Open Space Strategy about Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve should be reviewed in the masterplanning process and if still valid included in the redevelopment masterplan for the reserve.


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• Spectators shelters, informal or formal carparking, bike parking, accessible paths, seats, picnic facilities if no others in town, bins, dog bag dispensers, playground, directional signs, location sign, sponsorship.

The Strategy made some specific recommendations about studies and works that have implications for Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve. These recommendations are:

• Resolve traffic management issues.

• Provide female friendly cage spaces.

• Provide additional storage.

• Erect a playground.

Hepburn Shire Council, Disability Access and Inclusion Plan 2014-2016

This Document outlines Council’s key strategic activities and intended actions with respect to improving opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in community life. The activities and actions that have relevance to the Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve masterplan are as follows:

• Works with sporting clubs to enhance access by people with disabilities.

• Create and promote recreation opportunities for people with a disability.

• Adopt universal access principles in upgrade and renewal of recreation facilities.

• Undertake accessibility audit programs of key Council buildings

• Include access and inclusion standards and guidance in renewal and upgrade planning

• Conduct review of accessible parking spaces at Council facilities

The masterplan should aim to improve the physical accessibility of the facilities in the Reserve.

Hepburn Shire Council, Walking and Cycling Strategy 2011 Walking and Cycling Strategy, Priority Works 2017

The 2011 Document contains:

• Planning principles and design guidelines for footpaths, bike lanes and trails

• A list of proposed footpaths, bike lane and trail projects The Document recommends that trails be 2.5m wide and have a granitic sand or compacted gravel surface. The Document does not list any works that have relevance to Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve The 2017 Document list the priority projects for the next 5 years. Again, there are no projects that have relevance to Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve.

The design guidelines for trails and walking paths should be used when designing future walking trails in the Reserve

Central Highlands Regional Growth Plan (2013)

This Plan identifies where and when population growth will occur in the Central Highlands Region over the next few decades. It projects that the population will increase from 169,300 to 223,500 by 2031. It indicates that the majority of the increase will occur in Ballarat Geelong (33,000). Hepburn Shire is projected to grow by 3,500, The Plan describes the ‘settlement role’ of the townships in the Region, including the Hepburn Shire townships. The Plan nominates 5 roles – regional city, regional centre, town, small town and rural settlement. Creswick is categorised as a small town. The Plan indicates the towns that have growth potential. Creswick is not listed as having even limited growth potential. However, the Plan makes concedes that Creswick may grow quickly in the future because of its location within commuting distance of Melbourne.

-

AFL Victoria, Cricket Australia, Netball Victoria, FFV Facility Guidelines

These Guidelines provide information on the peak bodies’ preferred facility standards for playing fields, pavilions and other associated infrastructure.

Hepburn Shire should give consideration develop its own standards in response to these guidelines.


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AFL Goldfields Regional Strategy 2017 This Regional Strategy provides

• Outlines the principles and strategic framework to support the future development, governance and growth of football and netball throughout the Goldfields region.

• Identifies critical priorities and actions for AFL Goldfields, AFL Victoria, Netball Victoria, AFL Goldfields Leagues, Clubs and Netball Associations and project partner LGAs.

The priorities that have relevance to Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve are as follows:

• Work collaboratively to upgrade netball courts identified as below minimum condition

• Introduce a structured lux level lighting testing program

• Encourage LGAS to consider the AFL’s Preferred Facilities Guidelines, NV’s Facilities Manual, Design for Everyone Guide and Female Friendly Sport Infrastructure Guidelines when developing/upgrading football and netball facilities

The Strategy proposes a facility hierarchy for football/netball venues. Doug Lindsay is classified as a local reserve. The Strategy also rates the condition and standard of the venues. Doug Lindsay score a rating of 73%. It scores well for all elements except the condition of the oval (poor drainage).

The findings and recommendation of the AFL Goldfields Regional Strategy that relate Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve should be considered in the masterplanning process.