Torquay’s Banyul-Warri Fields hockey pitch is now open to enable more accessible and convenient games and training in the future.
The new state-of-the-art pitch was opened on 10 December and features artwork by Wadawurrung artist Billy-Jay O’Toole stitched into the pitch’s surface.
Surf Coast Shire Mayor Libby Stapleton said the pitch would be a “treasured and much-loved venue” for the community.
“I love seeing people of all ages and abilities participating in their sport, and now we get to add hockey to the mix,” she said.
“There’ll be a whole lot of economic benefits that the hockey pitch brings because there’ll be teams travelling to Torquay to participate in hockey.
“I know the Surf Coast hockey community has advocated for this for such a long time, and it’s so wonderful that we’re now able to deliver on their dream.
“The hockey pitch is a welcome addition to the busy Banyul-Warri Fields precinct, which continues to grow as an important place for community connections and wellbeing.”
Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney said she couldn’t wait to see Torquay’s hockey community make the pitch their own.
“These state-of-the-art facilities, delivered months ahead of schedule, will give local players, families and volunteers a place they can truly be proud of,” she said.
“We are so proud to see the results of our significant investment into sports infrastructure across Victoria that is helping our regional cities and towns become even better places to live, work, stay and play.”
Torquay Tornadoes Hockey Club vice president Andrew Crowley said their world-class new home was a “true game changer” for the club’s members and broader community.
“With the shire’s long-term support, we’ve grown from one junior team in 2010 to a strong club across women’s, men’s, and junior competitions,” he said.
