TELSTRA DOME - Melbourne (VIC)

Once described by others as “mission impossible”, Telstra Dome represents the ultimate challenge in turf management. HG Turf took over the management of the field in 2001, shortly after the inaugural turf contractor departed. The Stadium’s difficult growing conditions, i.e. extensive shade, restricted air movement and cold soil temperatures create a difficult environment for growing turf. Combine these factors with a retractable roof and heavy event schedule and the turf has limited opportunity to grow let alone recover after events. The Stadium’s turf must be replaced frequently during the winter months of the year, particularly in the high wear areas shared by Rugby League, Rugby Union, AFL and Soccer.

Telstra Dome uses Motz Stabilized Turf exclusively for their annual turf replacement program, typically 15,000m² per annum. The worn Motz Stabilized Turf is removed from the Stadium and replaced with new Motz Stabilized Turf. The worn product is then returned to the farm for renovation and then reused the following year. Typically the turf is replaced mid-week between fixtures, with up to one quarter of the field being removed in any given week.

In 2005 Telstra Dome will host 50 AFL football fixtures, more than any other venue. In addition to this the venue will host one international rugby union test and four one-day cricket internationals. HG Turf is also responsible for maintaining the drop-in portable cricket pitches.