Synthetic sporting pitch vandalised

Published on 24 March 2015

In a sickening act, the new synthetic pitch at Jack Edwards Reserve (Oakleigh) was vandalised over the weekend of 21-22 March.

Six separate areas of the pitch were set on fire using an accelerant. There is also evidence of damage caused by fire crackers being set off.

There was also suspicious activity at around 8pm on Monday 23 March but there was no further damage to the pitch.

Monash Mayor Paul Klisaris said the official opening of the new Council-funded $1.3 million pitch had been scheduled for 9 April with local clubs due to resume training on the ground on 1 April.

"At this stage we're still not sure how much time it will take to repair the pitch so we don't know if the opening will have to be delayed," Cr Klisaris said.

"I'm appalled at this senseless act. It's so disappointing for the clubs and their young members who were so looking forward to playing on this new surface.

"It just defies belief that some individuals can behave so selfishly and ruin it for others."

Cr Klisaris said the incident had been reported to Victoria Police which has begun investigations.

While the police investigations continue and repair work is undertaken, additional security has been arranged for the site with monitoring by security guards. Until handover of the site, it remains the responsibility of the contractors Grassports Australia.