Part 2: Building on a great tradition

Bundaberg is best known for sugar and rum, but also has a strong sporting tradition dating back to Australian wicketkeeper Don Tallon - one of Bradman's legendary 'Invincibles' and arguably the finest glovesman ever to wear the baggy green.

Salter Oval has been a central part of that sporting legacy for more than 70 years, but by 2001 the old wooden grandstand was showing its age and Bundaberg City Council decided it was time to act, as Mayor Kay McDuff explains...

Why was the work needed?
When did planning begin?
How long did construction take?
What hurdles did you have to overcome?
What was the main factor in your success?
What were the main benefits of the project?
How was the project funded?
How did you find working with Sport and Recreation Queensland?
What advice would you offer to other organisations seeking government grants?
Want more information?


Why was the work needed?

The old grandstand was quite dilapidated and Council was increasingly concerned about its safety. Our building inspectors were regularly identifying problems which needed fixing until it became fairly clear that the best option would be to rebuild.

When did planning begin?

Council started looking at this project seriously in 2001 although, at that stage, the plan was to build a new grandstand over the existing change sheds, because they were still in reasonable condition. However, once our officers examined that option more closely, they found it wasn't really viable or the best way to go. It took about four years to finalise the plans, secure funding and complete the project.

Foundation pour between showers.

How long did construction take?

Site work started on 17 January 2005 and the grandstand seating area was opened to the public on 8 July. By that stage, the project was virtually complete except for the lift which wasn't commissioned until a month or so later, due to a delay in delivery from the manufacturer in Italy. Formal handover took place on 26 August.

What hurdles did you have to overcome?

After demolishing the old facilities and starting preliminary work on the foundations, the contractor found the loamy clay at Salter Oval was too soft and spongy to support the new grandstand. The natural conditions were exacerbated by the need to irrigate the playing fields, which meant the area was always damp, so the local soil had to be replaced with imported material to ensure a solid construction pad. There was also a bit of wet weather and the delay with the lift, but overall the project went smoothly.

What was the main factor in your success?

Salter Oval is such an integral part of our local community in Bundaberg that everyone involved with the project was really enthusiastic. The contractor and his team were very professional and did a great job. Council's own staff were also closely involved in the project and went the extra mile to ensure it all went smoothly. Sport and Recreation Queensland was very supportive as well.

Work proceeds quickly after initial delays.

What were the main benefits of the project?

The new grandstand has provided local clubs with low cost access to quality facilities, attracted bigger crowds to games and should help Bundaberg to attract more sporting events. The administration, coaching and meeting rooms will help us coordinate and promote sport and recreation activities, which should increase participation rates.

How was the project funded?

The project was underwritten by Council, which invested $1,199,351 in the new facilities, but was heavily dependent on Queensland Government support. The lion's share of State funding was provided through the Queensland Government, which contributed $621,180 under the Major Facilities Program. Bundaberg Rugby League also received $65,455 from the Jupiters Casino Community Benefit Fund for a new canteen. That took the Queensland Government's total contribution to $686,335.

How did you find working with Sport and Recreation Queensland?

The Department went out of its way to support the project. Staff from the Bundaberg office played an active role in our monthly meetings and provided a lot of good advice along the way, particularly about documentation and contractual issues like signage. As our local contact for the Department, they provided excellent feedback throughout the process.

The Facilities staff from head office in Brisbane also visited the site on a number of occasions. Their primary responsibility of course was to ensure the work conformed with the terms of the grant, but they were very helpful and supportive as well.

New grandstand takes shape.

What advice would you offer to other organisations seeking government grants?

The first step is to do your research, be clear about what needs to be done and discuss the proposed scope with your local office to ensure it complies with the funding criteria. It also pays to consult closely with key stakeholders and the community to confirm their backing for the project and collect letters of public support.

Attention to detail is very important. Government agencies, like councils, have a responsibility to spend public money wisely, so they are not going to approve large sums of money without hard evidence that the proposal is viable and worthwhile.

Want more information?

For more information about the Salter Oval grandstand project, contact Mr Jim Whittaker, Project Supervisor, Bundaberg City Council, on (07) 4153 9957 or jamesw@bundaberg.qld.gov.au.

View further information on the Major Facilities Program or contact us.