Located in inner Melbourne, Royal Park, the State Netball Hockey Centre will host hockey and preliminary netball matches for the 2006 Commonwealth Games.

The two hockey pitches have been replaced in time for the Games with state-of-the-art surfaces. Because they're water based for competition, these surfaces offer a far superior level of play and help reduce injuries from falls.

As part of the Victorian Government’s committment to the environment, an Australian first water recycling system has also been installed at the same time. Water from the pitches, as well as rainwater from the stadium roof and pitches, will be reused to irrigate them – delivering savings in both water and running costs.

Beyond the Games, the pitch replacement will give club-level and national-level players access to a world class surface. As well as a great training ground, this surface will also put Victoria in an even better position to host major competitions.

Key facts and figures:

- 19 million litres of water expected to be saved each year;

- $10,000 per year will be saved in water bills;

- Work completed in March 2005.

To view environmental intiatives please click here