Two new hockey pitches are being installed at the State Netball Hockey Centre. The pitches are state-of-the-art synthetic surfaces that are permanently damp.

While required for international play, these pitches use a lot of water. So to balance environmental sustainability with sporting prowess, $340,000 has been invested in a water recycling project at the venue.

A rainwater collection system has been installed to create an independent water source for maintaining the pitches. In addition, gutters at the side of the pitches collect runoff and store it in underground tanks for later use.

In real terms, this initiative will give Victoria a world class hockey venue while only using three-quarters as much water.