MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire carried out a precautionary review of all shire-managed sporting reserves with synthetic cricket wicket covers, following the death of a player at Lalor Recreation Reserve in the City of Whittlesea.
The review was completed ahead of winter sport on the weekend of 11–12 July to ensure sporting fields remained safe for players, officials and the community.
Mayor Cr Stephen Batty said the shire’s thoughts were with the family, friends and football community affected by the incident.
“While this incident did not occur on the peninsula, it was important to proactively review our own sporting fields ahead of that weekend’s games,” said Batty.
“The safety of players and everyone who uses our sporting facilities is always our highest priority.”
Following the review, the shire ordered additional rubber crumb, with works on all senior grounds in use for games on 11–12 July completed beforehand. Remaining works will be carried out as quickly as possible once additional product arrives.
The review included inspection of all reserves with synthetic cricket wicket covers; Clegg Hammer testing of covered wickets to assess surface hardness and performance; verification of installation methods and materials; review of contractor compliance, maintenance records and inspection practices, and assessment of previous incidents or concerns relating to covered cricket wickets.
Initial investigations confirmed the shire’s cover systems are installed using Gecko-approved products and methodologies, consistent with industry practice and relevant guidance.
Mornington Peninsula Shire manages 52 sports fields, including 46 with a cricket pitch.
First published in the Mornington News – 14 July 2026
