Project Overview
The Wickham Oval Redevelopment project has delivered a more functional and accessible community space to better support local sport, schools, events, and wider community use.
Works completed as part of the project include:
- Playing surface crossfall adjustments and relaying of turf
- Installation of a new irrigation system
- Construction of a new cricket pitch
- Sports lighting and goal upgrades
- Formalisation of the Carse Street car park
- Drainage improvements to the oval and along Carse Street
Project Update - 11 May 2026
Following 6 months of construction, the City is pleased to announce that the Wickham Oval Redevelopment reached practical completion on Wednesday 29 April 2026.
Weekly turf maintenance will continue over the coming weeks while the playing surface stabilises.
A special thanks to Rio Tinto for funding and supporting the redevelopment of Wickham Oval.
For questions about the project, please contact the City via email at: enquiries@karratha.wa.gov.au
Timeline
Construction Commencement - Sports Oval and Field Closure Implemented
September 2025
Sports Field Lighting Installation
Completed - September 2025
Demolition
Completed - October 2025
Bulk Earthworks and Playing Surface Re-levelling
Completed - November 2025
Sports Oval Lighting Installation
Commenced - December 2025
Irrigation and Roll-on Turf Installation
January 2026
Why is Wickham Oval being upgraded?
To fix drainage and surface issues, improve safety, and provide better facilities for sport, school and community use.
What work is being done?
The project includes releveling the oval, installing new turf and irrigation, upgrading lighting and sports goals, and formalising the Carse Street Car Park with drainage improvements.
How long will the oval be closed?
From September 2025 to May 2026, to allow construction and turf establishment.
Why is the project happening now?
The timing aligns with the summer season, minimise disruption to sporting clubs and schools. It also ensures works are completed before the next wet season, helping resolve longstanding drainage and surface issues. By scheduling now, we can take advantage of current funding opportunities and deliver the upgrades in one coordinated program, reducing overall cost and downtime.
Where can we play during the closure?
Alternative venues will be arranged and communicated to clubs and the school ahead of time. In the meantime, residents are encouraged to use other available facilities, including South Park Oval and the Roebourne District High School Oval.
Who is funding the upgrade?
Rio Tinto are funding the Wickham Oval Redevelopment project.
How can I get updates?
Check the City of Karratha website, follow us on Facebook, or join the Facebook event for this project.
Will the upgrades affect my access to the Wickham Recreation Precinct?
No. Access to the Wickham Recreation Precinct will remain open, with only the playing surfaces and the informal car park along Crase Street unavailable during works.
Will any of the carparks or walkways be affected?
Walkways and formalised carparks will remain open and accessible. Any disruptions will be minimal and only occur if necessary for safety reasons.
Progress photos and updates will be added to this webpage and of the City of Karratha Facebook page throughout the works.