By KATHRYN BERMINGHAM
POOR court conditions forced the cancellation of play at Toomuc Reserve netball courts over the weekend, again raising doubts about the safety of the facility.
Last Saturday night the A-Grade netball match between Pakenham and ROC was called off halfway through the third quarter due to the dangerous condition of the court.
Pakenham player Lauren Lenders sustained a serious Achilles injury during the game, while several other players were injured after slipping on the wet court.
Cardinia Shire Council covered the original bitumen at the courts with coloured concrete about five years ago, however the surface is now cracked and uneven.
Wet conditions can make play particularly dangerous.
President of the Pakenham Netball Club, Nicole Foss, said it was disappointing that council had not taken more serious action to ensure the courts are safe.
“We identified last year that the courts were deteriorating and we’ve tried for six months to work with council to get things fixed,” she said.
“Council came out; they had a look at the courts and then emailed us a letter saying they were safe to play on.
Council’s Team Leader of Recreation and Facilities Heather Callahan said the courts were deemed safe before the commencement of the season.
“A risk assessment of the courts was undertaken by council officers prior to the season commencing and the Pakenham Netball Club was notified in writing that the courts were considered acceptable for playing in their current condition and advised that the club should monitor and inspect them prior to each use.”
She said it was the responsibility of the clubs to conduct regular checks on the playing surface.
“As per league and insurance requirements, the two competing clubs are required to undertake a risk assessment prior to matches being played on the courts,” she said.
“In the instance of heavy rain, it is the responsibility of the competing clubs to determine whether the playing surface is suitable for play.”
