About the projects
Over the next two years, Council will undertake two major infrastructure projects at Wally Tew Reserve:
- Sportsfield Renewal: Upgrading Wally Tew Reserve Oval 1 to enhance safety and playability
- Pavilion Upgrade: Modernizing the existing two-story pavilion to meet current standards
Project timelines
| Project | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Sporstfield renewal | Late 2024 – Late 2025 |
| Pavilion upgrade | April 2025 – April 2026 |
Scope of works
Sportsfield renewal
Renewal works at the sportsfield include:
- Leveling and resurfacing of the playing field.
- Installation of a modern irrigation and drainage system.
- Improvements to ensure consistent playability year-round.
Pavilion upgrade
Th upgrade will include:
- New kiosk and upgraded umpire rooms.
- Expanded verandah upstairs for better viewing.
- New toilets and external stairways.
- Gas-to-electric conversion for improved sustainability.
Gazebo upgrade
The upgrade will include:
- Creating an accessibly compliant structure.
- Replacing round timber posts with round steel posts.
- Creating a path to connect facilities.
Estimated project budgets
- Sportsfield renewal: $1.75 million
- Pavilion upgrade: $3.2 million (Victorian Government $2M, Knox City Council $1.2M)
Project timelines
| Project | Timing | Activity |
|---|---|---|
| Sportsfield renewal | Late 2024 | Works begin |
| Sportsfield renewal | Late 2025 | Works completed |
| Pavilion upgrade | April 2025 | Works begin |
| Pavilion upgrade | April 2026 | Works completed |
| Gazebo upgrade | July 2025 | Works begin |
| Gazebo upgrade | September 2025 | Works completed |
Location
Wally Tew Reserve is located at 6 Brenock Park Dr, Ferntree Gully.
Why this project is happening
Sportsfield renewal
Wally Tew Reserve Oval 1 has been identified as the highest priority for renewal in the 2024/25 Capital Program due to:
- Uneven playing surfaces caused by mixed grass types.
- Poor drainage and irrigation systems.
- Safety risks, including tripping hazards and inconsistent ball bounce.
- Difficulties in transitioning between sports seasons (cricket and football).
Pavilion upgrade
The current Wally Tew Pavilion, built in 1980, is outdated. The upgrade will ensure the facility meets accessibility, safety, and sustainability standards.
Gazebo upgrade
The gazebo has been deemed unfit for purpose and at the end of its life. The upgrade will ensure it is compliant and accessible.
Impacts
- The car park will have reduced parking availability throughout 2025 due to construction vehicles.
- The existing pavilion will be closed during construction.
- Ground around the gazebo will be closed and clean-up works will happen throughout the upgrade.
Map
Areas of Wally Tew that will be affected by upgrade works in 2025-2026.
New seniors exercise park
We are building a new exercise park to build on the existing park at Carrington Park which opened in 2022. Works will run from June - August 2025.
Need help?
Contact us and we will get back to you.
Or call our Major Projects and Initiatives team on 9298 8000.
