Late last August, construction began on a new hybrid technology Southern Highlands hockey turf.
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With the recent fires and droughts, it would be understandable for the project to be delayed.
But that is not to be.
Media and Communications Coordinator for the Wingecarribee Shire Council, David Sommers has ensured that the project is still progressing well.
"The second synthetic hockey field currently being constructed at Welby is progressing well despite a few minor weather delays," Mr Sommers said.
"During the height of the Green Wattle Creek blaze contractors were made aware of the potential risks at the site and the immediate surrounds which were affected by heavy smoke and threat of embers.
"To date, the sub-grade surface has been installed and the kerbs, paths and fencing are almost complete.
"Other components to be finalised include the installation of the shock pad and synthetic turf."
President of the Southern Highlands Hockey Association, Paul Sabatier can't wait for the new season to begin.
"We're excited about the addition of a second field," Mr Sabatier said.
"Because this will mean that competitions can be held at the same time, so there will be more players and spectators at the centre creating a great social atmosphere.
"Southern Highlands Hockey is one of the largest Associations in regional NSW with over 800 players in the winter competition and our existing synthetic field has been at capacity for many years.
"The extra space will allow both our junior and senior competitions to expand."
It will last for over 20 years with proper maintenance.
- Paul Sabatier
The new $1.2M playing field has been made possible via a combination of grant funding from the NSW Government's Stronger Country Communities Fund, Club Grants Infrastructure Grants Program, the Australian Sports Commission Community Sport Infrastructure Grant and cash reserves from the Southern Highlands Hockey Association.
This new field will be an up-to-date facility which can host the best of the best or beginners.
"The new hybrid technology field has playing characteristics like a watered field that you see being used in International tournaments and is a suitable surface for players of all ages to compete on," Mr Sabatier said.
"It will last for over 20 years with proper maintenance.
"In the future we can hold regional carnivals attracting teams from all over the state to play here."
The new playing pitch is already generating buzz within the hockey community itching to play on it. There is still time to enter a competition and play on this great new addition to the Southern Highlands sporting scene.
"Anyone can join up and play hockey," Mr Sabatier said.
"There are men's, women's and kid's competitions for all ages and ability levels."
Register in a Junior or Senior Team now. The new comp starts in March.
Contact your local club at at shhockey.com.au or at https://www.revolutionise.com.au/shh/clubs/
