Mornington Peninsula Shire Council has undertaken a precautionary review of all Council-managed sporting reserves with synthetic cricket wicket covers following the tragic death of a player at Lalor Recreation Reserve in the City of Whittlesea municipality.
27-year-old footballer, Nathan Fitzgerald, tragically died on Monday after suffering a severe on-field head collision last Saturday at the Reserve. After the head knock, Mr Fitzgerald reportedly fell headfirst onto the concrete-based cricket pitch in the centre of the oval.
Trainers and emergency personnel provided immediate first aid to Mr Fitzgerald, who suffered a critical brain bleed in the incident. His condition later deteriorated post-surgery and he tragically passed away in hospital after being placed in end-of-life care.
Mayor, Stephen Batty said the Shire’s thoughts remain with the family, friends and the football community affected by the tragic incident.
“While this incident did not occur on the Peninsula, it was important to proactively review our own sporting fields ahead of this weekend’s games,” Mayor Batty said.
“The safety of players and everyone who uses our sporting facilities is always our highest priority.”
As a result of the review, the Shire has ordered additional rubber crumb and all senior grounds in use this weekend for senior games will be completed before the weekend, the Mayor said.
The remaining works will be undertaken as quickly as possible once additional product is received, he said.
The review actions have included:
- inspection of all reserves containing synthetic cricket wicket covers;
- Clegg Hammer testing of all covered wickets to assess surface hardness and performance;
- verification of installation methods and materials;
- review of contractor compliance, maintenance records, and inspection practices;
- assessment of any previous incidents or concerns relating to covered cricket wickets.
Initial investigations confirm the Shire’s cover systems are installed using Gecko-approved products and methodologies, consistent with current industry practices and relevant sporting facility guidance.
The Shire manages 52 sports fields, including 46 grounds with a cricket pitch.
