Kevin Richards Memorial Oval Redevelopment

The Kevin Richards Memorial Oval Master Plan was endorsed by Council at the October 2020 Ordinary Council Meeting.  

It involves several stages, including the construction and refurbishment of key facilities, upgrades to lighting and playing surfaces, and the expansion of parking and play areas, which will enhance functionality and community use. 

The redevelopment is moving forward, with exciting upgrades underway from September 2024 to March 2025. These upgrades will enhance the oval's functionality, condition, and lighting quality. During this time, the majority of the oval will be temporarily fenced off until works are complete.   

The works include improvements to lighting and poles, renovations of turf and reticulation systems, installation of a new synthetic cricket pitch and nets and enhancements to grandstand seating. 

Access to the playgrounds and a section of the oval will remain open. Access will be available through Millars Well Pavilion car park and the playground car park. 

Lighting and pole upgrade  

A new lighting system will be installed to improve efficiency and functionality, including concrete footings, four new lighting tower poles, and a complete electrical setup. The work will involve trenching for electrical cabling and installing a new lighting control system. 

Turf and reticulation renovation and synthetic cricket net installation  

A new reticulation system is being installed to enhance efficiency and energy savings while replacing the old system. Weeds on the turf are being removed through a process known as Top Making, and the area is being levelled with top dressing to eliminate undulations. The oval is also being fertilised to promote a vibrant and speedy recovery. 

In addition, the old centre cricket wicket is being replaced with a new concrete pad and synthetic surfaces. The existing cricket practice nets at the southern end of the oval are being demolished, and a new practice net is being installed including new concrete, fencing, synthetic service and power in the North West corner of the oval for improved access.  

These developments, along with the ongoing Master Plan implementation, aim to improve sporting amenities and the overall appearance of the area. The revitalisation supports various sports and recreation clubs, promoting health and well-being in the community.  A special thank you to our funding partner the Australian Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications and their Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program in implementing Stage 2.  

The Master Plan as adopted by Council is proposed to be a seven-year staged delivery and includes: 

Stage 1a -   New play space, northern car park and design of a change room and club room facility  

Stage 1b - Construction of the Change and Club room  

Stage 2    - Playing field sport lighting upgrade  

Stage 3    - Existing Pavilion refurbishment 

Stage 4    - Multipurpose hard courts and lighting 

Stage 5    - Expansion of the existing southern carpark, supply of a serviced lot for Men’s Shed, relocation of cricket net and a second play space 

Stage 1a and 1b are completed 

The new northern Car Park and the two-storey Change and Club Room, part of our five-stage master plan for the Precinct, were completed in July 2023. This $9.6 million capital works project was delivered by Thomas Contracting. These upgrades, alongside the ongoing implementation of the master plan, are set to significantly enhance both the sporting facilities and the visual appeal of the Precinct. 

This revitalisation project benefits several existing and new sports and recreation clubs, as well as the broader community, by promoting health and well-being. Special thanks to our funding partners: the Australian Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications; the Western Australian Planning Commission, the WA Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries; and Lotterywest in implementing Stages 1a and 1b of the Kevin Richards Memorial Oval Redevelopment.