A safety review of sporting facilities around Monash is underway following the tragic incident during a football match at Lalor Reserve in Melbourne's north.
Monash Mayor Cr Stuart James extended condolences to those affected and reassured the community that Council is taking proactive steps to assess and manage any potential risk.
"On behalf of Monash Council, I extend my deepest sympathies, to the player's family, friends, teammates and the broader sporting community," said Cr James.
"Understandably this incident has raised concerns about player safety, particularly in relation to sporting field surfaces.
"The safety and wellbeing of everyone who uses our sporting facilities always comes first.
"While the circumstances surrounding the incident are still being investigated, Council has acted promptly and proactively to assess any potential risks and provide reassurance to clubs, players and the community that player safety remains our highest priority," he said.
As a precautionary measure, Council has:
- Completed visual inspections of all 23 winter sports fields where synthetic cricket wicket covers are installed.
- Applied additional rubber crumb and sand infill around wicket bases and seams.
- Engaged an independent specialist consultant to undertake hardness testing, commencing this week.
- Sought confirmation from wicket cover manufacturers that their products comply with relevant AFL and Cricket Australia facility guidelines.
- Requested further advice from the AFL regarding compliance requirements and any additional recommendations for community sporting facilities.
Council is taking a precautionary approach while these assessments are undertaken. Any remedial works identified through the independent testing program will be prioritised and completed as soon as possible.
We will continue to closely monitor the results of this review, work with relevant sporting bodies and industry experts, and take any further action necessary to ensure our grounds remain safe for players, officials and the wider community.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
