Brookvale Oval Investigation - Warringah Council - NSW Government

Brookvale Oval 

Investigation 

Warringah Council 

February 2010 

Ron MacCartney 

Michael Robinson 

SportsTurf Consultants (Aust.) Pty Ltd 

45 Westerfield Drive Notting Hill VIC 3168 Phone (03) 9574 9066 Fax (03) 9574 9072 

www.sportsturf.com.au info@sportsturf.com.au

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Executive Summary 

1. Introduction 

2. Condition Assessment 

2.1 Condition 

2.2 Maintenance & Renovation 

2.3 Oval Usage 

2.4 Usage Capacity 

3. Irrigation System Audit 

4. Consultation with Council, Stakeholders & Local Sporting Bodies 

5. Development Opportunities 

5.1. Resurfacing Options 

5.2. Maintenance 

5.3. Alternate Oval Usage and Configuration 

6. Recommendations 

Appendices 

1. Plan of Brookvale Oval 

2. Photographs 

3. Council, Stakeholders & Local Sporting Bodies Consultation 


Brookvale Oval Investigation Final Report (February 2010) Page 1

Executive Summary 

Brookvale Park is a significant recreational facility which plays an important role in both the local 

and national sporting environment as well as providing much needed neighbourhood park areas. It 

is primarily used as the home ground for the Manly Sea Eagles in the National Rugby League 

(NRL) competition. 

The oval’s turf cover is predominantly kikuyu and there is very dense thatch over the whole field 

which is providing a very spongy surface. There is a variable depth of a very slow draining sandy 

loam topsoil ranging from 290mm – 460mm in depth over a clay loam sub-base. There is a slight 

diagonal slope across the field from NW to SE and there is no sub-surface drainage system so the 

only way for excess water to move away is via the very slow infiltration or across the surface. 

The excessive thatch layer and the very poor drainage capacity of the topsoil are the two factors 

affecting the condition of the existing field and its potential for increased use. If these two issues 

are not addressed then the condition of the playing surface will deteriorate; good presentation 

cannot be guaranteed and usage levels will be reduced. 

The current maintenance program satisfies the needs of a suburban sportsfield that has winter use 

and little summer use. The implementation of a thatch reduction program and on-going thatch 

management work is recommended. The daily watering schedule is contributing to the heavy 

thatch development and a change to twice weekly watering is also recommended. 

An irrigation audit identified various operating concerns with the irrigation system which is affecting 

its performance and has lead to inefficient water use. 

The potential number of hours of use for Brookvale Oval based on its current condition, 

construction and maintenance is estimated to be a maximum of 15 hours per week during both 

winter and summer. Due to the oval being used for the NRL there is a greater requirement on 

presentation (i.e. television appearance) and the provision of a high quality playing surface, it is 

recommended that the usage does not exceed 10 hours per week during the NRL season. 

The Manly Sea Eagles are the only tenanted club at Brookvale Oval and have a licence with 

Warringah Council which will end in October 2013. During the licence period which runs from the 

1 st February to 31 st October the Sea Eagles have exclusive use of Brookvale Oval for each of their 

12 home games including a 2 day bump in/out either side of game day (i.e. exclusive use for 5 

days) as well as several training days at the start of the season. This limits the availability of the 

oval for other potential uses during the season. 

At the end of the NRL Season the oval needs to be out of play for up to 4 weeks for renovation of 

the playing surface to repair any damage sustained and rejuvenate the surface. 

There is some potential to run other events in between each of the twelve home games during the 

Sea Eagles licensing period. However there are scheduling issues due to the NRL’s rolling draw; 

and there is also no consistent day in the week when the oval is potentially free for regular casual 

bookings when bump in/out is taken into account. 

There are currently no organised sports scheduled for the oval during the off season which runs 

from early November (following renovation) to the end of January. 

The current situation, issues and future requirements of local sporting bodies and stakeholders 

including Manly Sea Eagles, Manly Rugby Club, Manly Warringah Pittwater Sporting Union, St 

Augustine’s College, Brookvale Public School and Parks Leisure Australia were ascertained 

through phone interviews. The main points raised were; 

• Participation has increased for all major sports especially juniors, women and older people. 

There is a shortage of sportsfields for all the major sports in the region including Rugby Union, 

Rugby League, Soccer, Baseball and Cricket. 


• There is a perception within the community that the Sea Eagles have exclusive use of 

Brookvale Oval. There is some community sentiment that there should be greater public 

access / use of the oval. 

• Ideally the Sea Eagles would like no other sports played / usage on Brookvale Oval during the 

NRL season so that it is kept in pristine condition for matches. However they would accept low 

impact use (e.g. school use) but would like prior notification of this or any other use during the 

season. 

• Both St. Augustine’s College and Brookvale Public School which are located nearby to 

Brookvale Park have limited facilities and neither have a proper sportsfield. 

• Manly Rugby Club (Union) loses access to Manly Oval (their home ground) during the middle 

of the finals when cricket takes over tenancy. Access to Brookvale Oval for training and playing 

finals has been denied by the Sea Eagles in the past. 

The following recommendations are provided for Council’s consideration; 

• The implementation of a thatch reduction program and on-going thatch management work is 

recommended for the existing field. The daily watering schedule is contributing to the heavy 


• A partial reconstruction should be undertaken to improve the existing surface and avoid further 

deterioration and to increase usage. 

• The recommendations from the Irrigation Audit should be implemented to improve the 

performance of the irrigation system. 

• There is a need to review and to likely increase the maintenance inputs for the field to ensure 

that a durable turf surface is provided and the investment of any improvements is safe 

guarded. 

• There is potential to increase community usage of the oval during the NRL season with low 

impact use (e.g. schools, corporate sports and fitness training) on the weeks the Sea Eagles 

play at home and to stage weekend matches for junior rugby league and low impact use on 

the Sea Eagles away weeks. This will require Council to put in place a system to manage 

usage and will also require good communication with the Sea Eagles administration. 

• There is potential for the Manly Rugby Club to utilise Brookvale Oval for training and finals in 

September depending on the Sea Eagles finals campaign. 

• Increasing the availability of Brookvale Oval for other sporting codes, even during the Sea 

Eagles Licence Period will reduce the perception within the community that the Sea Eagles 

have exclusive use of the oval. 

• During the off season (i.e. summer period) following renovation the field has the potential to be 

used as a venue for various competitive sports and casual event use. 


1. Introduction 

Brookvale Park is a significant recreational facility which plays an important role in both the local 

and national sporting environment as well as providing much needed neighbourhood park areas. It 

is primarily used as the home ground for the Manly Sea Eagles in the National Rugby League 

(NRL) competition. 

SportsTurf Consultants Pty. Ltd was commissioned by Warringah Council to undertake an 

investigation of Brookvale Oval to determine surfacing and field configuration options to ensure the 

sportsground is suitable for a multipurpose sports and events arena. 

This investigation will contribute to meeting two of the objectives identified in the Brookvale Park 

Plan of Management which was completed in 2002; 

• To develop Brookvale Park into a multi-purpose and high standard event facility which takes 

the needs of all the Park users and stakeholders into account; and 

• To investigate options to develop Brookvale Park into an area which is open, accessible, 

attractive and inviting and which caters for both active and passive recreational pursuits. 

This report details; 

- the current condition of the playing surface including turf composition, cover, density, turf 

health, weeds, surface shape, soil conditions etc. 

- the current nutrient status of the oval 

- an audit of the irrigation system’s operation and efficiency 

- the current usage capacity of the oval 

- resurfacing and maintenance options to increase its usage capacity and indicative costs 

- alternative oval uses and configuration to maximise use 

- consultation with council officers, relevant local sporting bodies and stakeholders on their 

current situation and future requirements (Manly Sea Eagles, Manly Rugby Club, Manly 

Warringah Pittwater Sporting Union, St Augustine College, Brookvale Public School and Parks 

Leisure Australia) 


2. Condition Assessment 

2.1 Condition 

The existing field is rectangular with rounded corners providing a grassed surface approximately 

87 metres wide and 137 metres long (1.2 ha). This provides a football playing area of 68 metres x 

116 metres, with a safety buffer of approximately 8 metres between the boundary and the fence. 

The field has its longitudinal axis running slightly east of north-south, and has a very slight slope 

from the north-west corner to the south-east corner. 

Appendix 1 contains a plan of the oval. 

• Ground Cover 

The turf cover is predominantly kikuyu with a scattering of carpet grass. 

The turf cover has a very dense thatch over the whole field which is providing a very spongy 

surface. In many places the mower has scalped into the thatch, leaving only kikuyu stalks. 

An area of synthetic turf (approx. 10metres x 4metres) has been laid at the players’ entry to 

cope with the continual traffic. Abutting the in-field side of this synthetic turf is an area of very 

poor turf cover. Little kikuyu is present and there is tufty weed grasses dominating. 

Appendix 2 contains photographs illustrating items relating to current condition. 

• Soil Profile 

Eight test holes were dug to determine the nature of the soil profile. This has been illustrated in 

the diagram below. 

0 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 

Depth (mm) 

-200 

-400 

-600 

Thatch Grey sandy loam Clay 

3 2 

1 

4 5 

North 

8 7 

6 


The presence of the thatch material over the field is quite typical of a mature kikuyu turf sward, 

but the density of this layer will impact significantly on the performance of the soil profile, and 

on the actual playing surface. 

The thatch layer will retain moisture, reducing the infiltration rate of the profile. In terms of 

playing surface performance, the thatch will provide a softer surface but this will result in a 

heavier playing surface and potential energy-sapping of player performance. 

The test holes show a variable depth of sandy loam topsoil ranging from 290mm – 460mm over 

a sub-base of clay loam. 

Laboratory tests show that the sandy loam topsoil has a drainage capacity of 11 mm/hr which 

is very slow. The desired drainage capacity of a rootzone material in a high quality sportsfield is 

200 - 300 mm/hr. 

It was reported that there is no sub-surface drainage system in this field so the only way for 

excess water to move away is via the very slow infiltration or across the surface. This can lead 

to surface damage particularly if traffic occurs during periods when the soil is saturated. 

• Soil Nutrient Analysis 

An analysis of the topsoil was carried out and the results are: 

Ideal 

Ideal 

Oval 

Range 

Range 


pH (water) 6.0 - 7.0 5.7 Trace Elements 

Electrical Conductivity (mS/cm) < 0.27 0.04 Sulphur (ppm) 10 - 50 4 

Total salts (ppm) < 800 119 Zinc (ppm) 1 - 10 4.1 

Phosphorus (Colwell) (ppm) 50 - 80 210 Copper (ppm) 1 - 10 1.5 

Exchangeable cations Manganese (ppm) 0.1 - 4.0 6.0 

Potassium (meq /100g) 0.5 - 0.6 0.2 Iron (ppm) 10 - 60 240 

Calcium (meq /100g) > 3.5 1.4 Boron (ppm) 0.3 - 1.0 0.1 

Magnesium (meq /100g) 0.8 - 1.0 0.6 Chloride (ppm) < 100 22 

Calcium Magnesium Ratio 2 - 5 2.3 

Cation Exchange Capacity (meq/100g) > 5 2.3 

Base Saturation Levels (% cations) 

Potassium (%) > 10 7 

Calcium (%) 60 - 70 60 

low acceptable high 

Magnesium (%) 20 - 23 26 

Sodium (%) < 5 

3 

These results show: 

• strongly acid pH – needs lime to modify acidity; 

• normal level of Total Salts – no concern; 

• high phosphorus level – sufficient for turf maintenance, no remedial action; 

• very low potassium level – needs improvement; 

• very low calcium and magnesium levels – extra calcium and magnesium needed; 

• low sodium level – no concern; 

• other elements generally adequate for turf growth. 


2.2 Maintenance 

The Warringah Council owns and is responsible for the maintenance of Brookvale Oval throughout 

the year. Brookvale Oval is Council’s only regional Category A rated sportsfield. 

The following table summarises the Oval’s current maintenance program. 

Operation 

Mowing 

Fertiliser 

Detail 

Height: 20 – 40 mm 

Frequency: Generally 2x weekly; sometimes 3x during League season 

Type: 

• High Performance NPK (34-1-6) @ 200 kg 

• Organics @ 200kg 

• Lime @ 800 kg 

• Kieserite @ 200 kg 

Frequency: Each applied 4x per year 

Watering 

Pesticides 

Other operations 

Renovation Works 

Schedule: 30 min. run-time per night - Aimed to equal daily Panevaporation 

rate 

Type & Purpose: 

• Mole cricket, scarab, billbug control in spring; 

• Broadleaf herbicide (Spearhead) for Bindii control; 

• Herbicide (Destiny) for onion grass, wintergrass and clover control; 

• Glyphosate herbicide for verge and edge control 

Type & Purpose: 

• Vertidrain Deep aeration (200mm), solid tyne 6x – 10x per year; 

Timing: Early spring & late summer 

Operations: 

• Topdressing and divotting to maintain surface levels 

• Seeding with ryegrass in winter (4x @ 200kg) to develop strong winter 

cover 

Oval is closed for 2-4 weeks after renovation works for recovery 

The current maintenance program is a good basic program for a suburban sportsfield that has 

winter use and little summer use. 

The lack of any thatch reducing work and the daily watering schedule help to explain the presence 

of the very dense kikuyu thatch on the surface of the field. Kikuyu is a very vigorous summergrowing 

grass which thrives on summer watering. Its normally growth habit is to produce many 

surface runners, which if not controlled will result in a thick spongy layer on the soil surface. This 

layer has certainly developed in Brookvale Oval, as shown by the way that the mower scalps into 

the layer leaving only grass stalks and little leaf canopy in a number of places. 

The thatch development can be controlled by a combination of very close mowing, particularly in 

late spring and early summer, and surface scarifying and vacuuming also in spring and summer. 


The daily watering schedule may be required to move sufficient water through the thatch layer into 

the soil and grass roots. However daily watering, in principle, is not sound watering management to 

develop a tough and durable turf surface. A well-managed warm-season turf surface should be 

easily maintained with twice-weekly irrigation. 

When a dense thatch layer is present, and when turf is under daily irrigation, the turf surface 

becomes soft and spongy and is not able to tolerate normal wear. The surface is easily scuffed and 

divotted. A tight surface with little thatch has a denser surface that can provide better foot-holding 

and the vigorous leaf canopy (as opposed to stalky runners) will tolerate the wear, but also recover 

more quickly. A well-managed surface will be much less wearing on players as well because the 

lack of sponge will not be as draining on players. 

It will be essential to implement a thatch reduction program and on-going thatch management work 

into the maintenance program if the use of the oval is to be increased. 

2.3 Oval Usage 

The Manly Sea Eagles are the only tenanted club at Brookvale Oval and have a licence with 

Warringah Council. The term of the agreement is 5 years, commencing 1 Feb 2009 and 

terminating 31 October 2013. The 'Season' is defined in the agreement as 'the period each year of 

the term commencing on 1 February and terminating 31 October, both dates inclusive'. 

During this 34 week period the Sea Eagles have exclusive use of Brookvale Oval for each of their 

12 home games including a 2 day bump in/out either side of game day (i.e. exclusive use for 5 

days) as well as several training days at the start of the season. 

A 4 week period needs to be set aside for the renovation of the playing surface at the end of the 

NRL Season. Hence there is only a 13 week period starting early November and running to the 

end of January where the oval can be used in the off season. 

Period Weeks Activity 

Start of February 

to the end of September 

34.5 Sea Eagles Licence period 

October 4.5 Renovation of playing surface 

Start of November 

to the end of January 

13 Off season 

There is some potential to run other events in between each of the twelve home games during the 

Sea Eagles licensing period. However there are scheduling issues due to the NRL’s rolling draw; 

the actual day (Friday night, Saturday, Sunday or Monday night) a match is scheduled is only 

known a maximum of 4 to 5 weeks in advance. There is also no consistent day in the week when 

the Oval is potentially free for regular casual bookings when bump in/out is taken into account. 

There are currently no organised sports scheduled for the oval during the summer season 


2.4 Usage Capacity 

The usage capacity is defined as the number of hours of use that a playing surface can sustain 

before it deteriorates to a point where short term recovery is not achievable (i.e. surface restored 

within one to two weeks). 

The potential number of hours of use for Brookvale Oval based on its current condition, 

construction and maintenance is estimated to be a maximum of 15 hours per week during both 

winter and summer. 

This is the potential maximum hours of use which includes match play, training and casual use and 

will be modified by weather conditions, type of sport played, time of year, surface conditions (cover, 

turf-type, compaction etc.) and the level of maintenance. Usage at levels greater than this will 

result in significant deterioration of the playing surface. 

It should also be noted that; 

• Continuous use under prolonged wet conditions and/or rainfall will result in significant 

damage to any surface and therefore will reduce the potential hours of use and recovery 

from damage. 

• The amount of training conducted on the ground will impact on localised areas of wear and 

therefore may reduce the hours of use. Training sessions involving more than two teams at 

the one time will also result in significant deterioration of the playing surface. 

Due to the oval being used for the NRL there is a greater requirement on presentation (i.e. 

television appearance) and the provision of a high quality playing surface. It is recommended that 

the usage does not exceed 10 hours per week during the NRL season. 



An audit of the irrigation system at Brookvale Oval was undertaken by Irrigation Management and 

included; 

• Visual inspection of all irrigation assets 

• Field assessment of system performance 

At the time of the audit the irrigation pump had been removed for servicing and repair resulting in 

the secondary water supply option being used for the oval irrigation. This water supply being a 

50mm potable supply protected with a Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) device. A pressure test was 

undertaken once the primary water supply pump had been repaired. 

The full irrigation audit and pressure test report are included in appendix 3. 

The following operating concerns were identified; 

• Varying operating pressures throughout the system 

• Poor distribution uniformities 

• Varying application rates 

• Broken sprinklers 

• Inaccurate sprinkler alignment 

• Varying sprinkler nozzle sizes 

• Varying sprinkler spacing’s 

• Faulty rain delay switch 

• Poor irrigation controller programming 

All the above concerns have lead to inefficient water use. 

The following recommendations would enhance the performance of the irrigation system; 

• Align noted sprinklers vertically 

• Ensure correct degree of arc is used for boundary sprinklers 

• Raise or lower sprinklers to correct levels 

• Replace damaged and missing sprinklers 

• Replace and maintain consistency with sprinkler nozzle sizes used through out the oval 

• Implement a system maintenance programme 

• Practice irrigation scheduling 

• Provide training to key personnel in irrigation scheduling and system maintenance 

• Replace the faulty rain delay device and install in an appropriate location 

• Install soil moisture sensors 

Water and input savings of up to 21% could be achieved by adopting these recommendations and 

procedures. 


4. Consultation with Council, Stakeholders & Local Sporting Bodies 

A meeting was held with relevant Council officers and phone interviews conducted with local 

sporting bodies and stakeholders nominated by Council to understand their current situation, 

issues and future requirements in relation to Brookvale Oval. 

The following groups were consulted; 

- Manly Sea Eagles (Alex Ross, Head Trainer) 

- Manly Rugby Club (Matt McGoldrick, General Manager) 

- Manly Warringah Pittwater Sporting Union (Diana Pecar, Secretary) 

- St Augustine’s College (John Papahatzis, Director of Sports) 

- Brookvale Public School (Steve Richards, School Principal) 

- Parks Leisure Australia (Les Munn, local PLA Representative) 

The main points raised from the meeting and phone interviews were; 

• Warringah Council owns and is responsible for the maintenance of Brookvale Oval throughout 

the year and undertakes renovation at the end of the NRL season. Brookvale Oval is the only 

regional Category A rated sportsfield in the Council. 

• The Sea Eagles play all their home games at Brookvale Oval and the Club administration and 

training is based at the New South Wales Academy of Sport (Narrabeen). The Sea Eagles 

have a final training session on Brookvale Oval one day before the match and there is a 

minimum of 2 games (sometimes 3) played on match day. 

• The Sea Eagles have a 5 year licence with Warringah Council which commenced in 2009. The 

licence covers the “Season” which runs from the start of February to the end of September (i.e. 

34 weeks). During this period they have exclusive use of Brookvale Oval for each of their 12 

home games including a 2 day bump in/out either side of game day (i.e. exclusive use for 5 

days) as well as several training days at the start of the season. 

• There is some potential to run one off events in between each of the twelve home games 

however there are problems with scheduling due to not knowing what day of the week a home 

game will be played until at most 5 weeks in advance due to the NRL’s rolling draw. A home 

game may be scheduled on a Friday night, Saturday, Sunday or Monday night so there is no 

consistent day in the week which is free for regular casual bookings when the 2 day bump 

in/out is taken into account. 

• There is no summer tenant use for organised sport. The oval only is only available for a 13 

week period during summer (i.e. start of November after renovation until the end of January). 

As all sports have a break over the Christmas / New Year period this further reduces the length 

of the off season at Brookvale Oval. Some infrastructure may also be required for other sports 

if they were to use Brookvale Oval. 

• Brookvale Oval has been used for various one off events (casual bookings) in the past and the 

fee structure has been a stumbling block for further use. Events have included school athletic 

carnivals, Walk for Life, concerts, Wallabies & Waratahs’ training sessions etc 

• The Sea Eagles long term plan is to continue training at Narrabeen (i.e. they aim to renew 

current contract when it is up) and to continue using Brookvale Oval for all home games and as 

a back up training venue in wet weather when they cannot train at Narrabeen. 


• Ideally the Sea Eagles would like no other sports played / usage on Brookvale Oval during the 

NRL season so that it is kept in pristine condition for matches. However they would accept low 

impact use (eg. school use) but would like prior notification of this or any other use during the 

season. 

• Manly Rugby Club (Union) uses Manly Oval for all their home games and training and is happy 

with this arrangement. Their main issue is at the back end of the season when cricket takes 

control over Manly Oval in the middle of their finals. They have approached the Sea Eagles in 

the past to play final matches and to train on Brookvale Oval but their requests were denied 

(but they have not formally asked Council for access). They would like to be able to use 

Brookvale Oval in the future for matches and training during the finals. 

• There is a shortage of sportsfields for all the major sports in the region including Rugby Union, 

Rugby League, Soccer, Baseball and Cricket. There have been no new sportsfields 

constructed in the past 20 years and the population has increased significantly. Participation 

has increased for all major sports especially juniors, women and older people. 

• There is a perception within the community that the Sea Eagles have exclusive use of 

Brookvale Oval. There is some community sentiment that there should be greater public 

access / use of the oval. Many local sporting groups/competitors would love to play on the 

same field that their football heroes play on. 

• St. Augustine’s College and Brookvale Public School are both located opposite Brookvale 

Park. Both schools have limited facilities and neither have a proper sportsfield. They would like 

to be able to use Brookvale Oval during school hours on an ad-hoc basis for PE classes, touch 

footy trials, training etc. and for the occasional game or athletics carnival. The cost to use the 

oval would be an important consideration for the schools. 


5. Development Opportunities 

5.1 Resurfacing Options and Maintenance 

The two factors affecting the condition of the existing field and its potential for increased use are 

the excessive thatch layer and the very poor drainage capacity of the topsoil. If these two issues 

are not addressed then the condition of the playing surface will deteriorate; good presentation 

cannot be guaranteed and usage levels will be reduced. 

Any option for improvement should address these two issues. 

• Thatch Layer: The thatch layer can be quite easily removed by specialised turf equipment 

without adversely affecting the surface contours, and the kikuyu turf can be regenerated from 

the remaining plant material. There may be a need for minor turfing into very weak areas such 

as the player entry point, but a firm grass cover will be achieved in about 8 weeks if carried out 

in the kikuyu growing season. 

• Drainage Improvement: Improvement of the drainage capacity of the existing topsoil can only 

be achieved by installation of a network of sub-surface pipes and sand trenches. 

The sub-surface pipes would be installed along the length of the field, spaced at 10 metre 

centres, with the sand trenches running across the field at 2 metre centres. This design would 

allow surface water to quickly move into the drainage system rather than traversing the whole 

field. 

The issues of the thatch and drainage capacity will be eliminated by either of the following two 

proposed options (i.e. partial reconstruction or full reconstruction). 

Option Works involved Estimated Cost Time Required for Works 

Partial 

• thatch removal 

Reconstruction • sub-surface drainage pipes 

• sand trenches 

$140,000 3 weeks 

• sand carpet 

• irrigation repairs 

grow-in: 8 weeks 

• soil amendments 

Full 

Reconstruction 

• excavation of existing 

surface 

• shape sub-base 

• new sub-surface drainage 

system 

• new irrigation system 

• replacement of topsoil 

layer 

• amendments 

• grassing 

$480,000 6 - 8 weeks 

grow-in: 16 weeks 


The benefits and ramifications of each of the options are summarised below. 

Option Benefits Ramifications 

Partial Reconstruction • Reduced cost 

• Poorly draining soil remains 

• Reduced time required 

• Need for regular deep aeration 

• Can be done in normal offseason 

works 

• Provides improved surface 

• Increased potential usage 

Full Reconstruction • Provides premier quality surface 

• Replaces poorly performing soil 

drainage and irrigation systems 

• Increased durability of turf 

• Increased potential usage 

• Higher cost 

• Longer construction period 

• Works may impact on normal 

use agreements 

The potential usage for each option is summarised in the following table. 

Option Winter Summer 

Current condition 10 hours / week 15 hours / week 

Partial reconstruction 15 hours / week 20 hours / week 

Full reconstruction 20 hours / week 25 hours / week 

5.2 Maintenance & Renovation 

There is a need to review and to likely increase the maintenance inputs for the field to ensure that 

a durable turf surface is provided and the investment of any improvements is safe guarded. 

Renovation of the playing surface is required at the end of the NRL season to repair any damage 

sustained and rejuvenate the surface in preparation for the next football season. This procedure 

may require intensive operations such as scarifying, turf sodding, topdressing etc. and would 

necessitate the field being out of play for up to 4 weeks. 

The following cost estimates are provided to cover a standard level of maintenance & renovation 

for a high quality sportsfield. 

Item 

Cost 

Mowing (x 70 cuts) $25,000 

Fertilising (x 8) $6,000 

Pest control (weeds, insects: x 3) $5,000 

Aeration (verti drain x 2, slicing x 4) $5,000 

Renovation - Scarifying $1,000 

Renovation - Overseeding $3,000 

Renovation - Topdressing $7,000 

Renovation - Surface repair - sod (200m 2 ) $1,500 

Repair - irrigation system $3,000 

Miscellaneous $3,000 

Total Cost $59,500 

Note; this does not include the cost of water 


5.3 Alternate Oval Usage and Configuration 

The playing surface is approximately 137m x 87m with the longest side running north – south. The 

required dimensions for Rugby League are 100m x 68m. There is a recommended minimum of 3m 

around the field (preferred 6m). For a 100m x 68m field including preferred free space and dead 

ball area, 134m x 80m is required based on maximum dimensions 

Other potential uses of the oval are summarised in the following table. 

Potential Use 

Comment 

Baseball • Not suitable for seniors, Under 18 or Under 16 due to insufficient 

width of oval – the minimum foul line length is 98m 

• Will cater for Under 14 baseball (approximate foul line length of 

83m) or Little league; there is no requirement for mounds and 

players can run on grass between bases however a temporary 

home run fence is required 

Soccer / Small sided games • Full size soccer (approximately 111m x 74m including 3m space 

around field); permanent goal sleeves could be installed 

• Junior soccer (Under 8 & Under 9: 50m x 25m; Under 10: 60 – 

70m x 50 – 55m); multiple games across the field could be staged 

at once using portable goals 

Athletics • Not suitable for a 8 lane 400m track (area required is 

approximately 177m x93m) 

• Suitable for a 6 lane, 300m grass track (area required is 137m x 

77m) 

Rugby Union • Suitable for full size rugby union pitch 

• Minimal changes required 

Touch Football • Suitable for touch football (minimum area required is 

approximately 60m x 70m) 

• Potential to have two fields running side by side across the existing 

field 

Lacrosse • Suitable for lacrosse (area required is 116m x 66m) 

Tradeshows / Exhibitions / 

Concerts 

• Recommended only to be held in the off-season due to potential 

damage to playing surface 

• May require ground protection measures 

• Load bearing issues with heavy vehicles 

Outdoor cinema • Use of grand stands for seating or seating on the playing surface 

eg. deck chair cinema, local movie festivals 

• Screenings during summer and late spring 

Corporate sports, Fitness training, 

Frisbee 

• Low impact, wear patterns would need to be monitored 

• Staged mid-week 

School use • PE classes, softball, trials etc. 

• Generally low impact, wear patterns would need to be monitored 

• Brookvale Public School & St Augustine College have limited 

grassed areas and are both located opposite Brookvale Park 


The following diagrams show potential field configuration for junior baseball, a 300m, 6 lane 

athletics track, junior soccer & touch football. Rugby Union, full sized soccer and lacrosse are not 

shown as they are a similar size and shape to the existing Rugby League field. 

Junior Baseball 

300m Athletics Track (6 lane) 

Junior Soccer - Under 8 & Under 9 Junior Soccer - Under 10 


Touch Football 

It should be noted that Brookvale Oval is categorised under the Local Government Act as a 

Sportsground (land that is used, or proposed to be used, primarily for active recreation involving 

organised sports or the playing of outdoor games). This categorisation may need to be changed if 

the oval is used for non sporting uses such as tradeshows, exhibitions, concerts and outdoor 

cinema. 

Note also that the Plan of Management (PoM) outlines leases, licences or other estates that are 

expressly authorised for the site, and the associated conditions with such use agreements. The 

PoM expressly authorises, for example, a lease, license of other estate over that land within 

Brookvale Park categorised as Sportsground for sports and related auxiliary purposes. 

The Plan also states ‘This authorisation relates to the use of all building and facilities within the 

boundaries of the sportsground category. Sports and events can be defined as any sporting, 

cultural, education, promotional, musical event and/or activities which the ground can cater for, 

providing the core objectives of the sports ground category are met.’ Therefore the area could be 

used for purposes identified above if they are deemed to be ‘sports and related auxiliary purposes’ 

and meet the following objectives; 

(a) to encourage, promote and facilitate recreational pursuits in the community involving 

organised and informal sporting activities and games, and 

(b) to ensure that such activities are managed having regard to any adverse impact on 

nearby residences. 


With the available time left after the Sea Eagles use there is potential for the field to be more fully 

utilised during the NRL season and also during the summer break period. 

• During the NRL Season (start of February to end of September) 

- local junior rugby league matches can be scheduled during the Sea Eagles away week 

- low impact use on weekdays (e.g. school use, corporate sports & fitness training) 

- potential for Manly Rugby Club to have access to Brookvale Oval during their finals 

depending on the Sea Eagles / NRL finals requirement 

A suggested program for use of Brookvale Oval during the NRL season is; 

Current 

condition 

10 hours / week 

Sea Eagles Home Week 

- Final training session the day before the match (2 hours) 

- Match day - 3 games (5 hours) 

- Maximum of 3 hours of low impact use (e.g. school use, corporate sports 

& fitness training) 

Sea Eagles Away Week 

- Maximum of 4 weekend matches for junior rugby league (6 hours) 

- No training allowed 



Partial 

reconstruction 












Full 

reconstruction 







- Maximum of two 2 hour training sessions for local junior sports (no more 

than two teams training at once) 






- Maximum of two 2 hour training sessions for local junior sports (no more 

than two teams training at once) 


Any additional use during the winter period would need to be subject to weather conditions, to 

avoid the potential for surface damage. 

If major one off events (e.g. athletic carnivals, Walk for Life, concerts, Wallabies & Waratahs’ 

training sessions etc.) are held during the NRL season or if the Sea Eagles need to train at 

Brookvale Oval due to inundation of their training field at Narrabeen then all other usage will 

need to be minimised during that period. Sea Eagles training during the season normally 

involves three 1.5 hour sessions per week. 

• During the off-season (following renovation - start of November to end of January) 

- potential for summer competition of various sports up to the recommended usage capacity, 

however the length of the season is limited 

- casual use for other events 

The recommended level of usage of Brookvale Oval during the off-season is; 

Current condition 

Usage capacity: 15 hours / week 

Partial reconstruction 

Usage capacity: 20 hours / week 

Full reconstruction 

Usage capacity: 25 hours /week 


6. Recommendations 

The following recommendations are provided for Council’s consideration; 

• The implementation of a thatch reduction program and on-going thatch management work is 

recommended for the existing field. The daily watering schedule is contributing to the heavy 


• A partial reconstruction should be undertaken to improve the existing surface and avoid further 

deterioration and to increase usage. A full reconstruction of the existing surface cannot be 

justified on the basis of the extra cost versus increased potential use. 

• The recommendations from the Irrigation Audit should be implemented to improve the 

performance of the irrigation system. 

• There is a need to review and to likely increase the maintenance inputs for the field to ensure 

that a durable turf surface is provided and the investment of any improvements is safe 

guarded. 

• There is potential to increase community usage of the oval during the NRL season with low 

impact use (e.g. schools, corporate sports and fitness training) on the weeks the Sea Eagles 

play at home and to stage weekend matches for junior rugby league and low impact use on 

the Sea Eagles away weeks. This will require Council to put in place a system to manage 

usage and will also require good communication with the Sea Eagles administration. 

• There is potential for the Manly Rugby Club to utilise Brookvale Oval for training and finals in 

September depending on the Sea Eagles finals campaign. 

• Increasing the availability of Brookvale Oval for other sporting codes, even during the Sea 

Eagles Licence Period will reduce the perception within the community that the Sea Eagles 

have exclusive use of the oval. 

• During the off season (i.e. summer period) following renovation the field has the potential to be 

used as a venue for various competitive sports and casual event use. 


Appendix 1: Plan of Brookvale Oval 


Appendix 2: Photographs 

Overview of Brookvale Oval looking south 

Scalped thatch showing in foreground 


Synthetic turf area and damaged natural turf at player entry point 

Overview of Brookvale Oval looking north 


Appendix 3: Council, Stakeholders & Local Sporting Bodies 

Consultation 

Warringah Council 

• Warringah Council have some 120 sporting reserves at 54 locations 

• The Council owns and is responsible for the maintenance of Brookvale Oval throughout the year 

• Brookvale Oval is the only regional Category A rated sportsfield 

• Management/use of the oval reverts back to Council outside of the Manly Sea Eagles licensing terms 

(i.e. from the start of October to the end of January) 

• There is some potential to run one off events in between each of the twelve home game periods during 

the Sea Eagles licensing period 

• The NRL draw is published prior to the season so the weeks that the Sea Eagles are playing at home is 

known at the start of the season but not the actual day of the week 

• Only 5 weeks notice is given by the NRL as to whether home games will be played on a Friday night, 

Saturday, Sunday or Monday night 

• There are problems with scheduling one off events during the Sea Eagles licensing period due to this 

uncertainty 

• As a home game may be scheduled on a Friday night, Saturday, Sunday or Monday night there is no 

consistent day in the week which is potentially free for regular casual bookings when the 2 day bump 

in/out is taken into account 

• Brookvale Oval has been used for various one off events (casual bookings) in the past including school 

athletic carnivals, Walk for Life, concerts, Wallabies & Waratahs’ training sessions etc 

• The main issue for one off events is the fee structure (i.e. it is cost prohibitive for many community 

groups) 

• There is no summer tenant use for organised sport (i.e. start of October to end of January) 

• Perception that Brookvale Park is a rugby league venue rather than a community facility 

• Oval renovations are currently undertaken between October and December 

Manly Sea Eagles 

• The Club administration and training is based at the New South Wales Academy of Sport at Narrabeen 

(a 10 year lease was signed with the NSW government in 2004 for use of this venue) 

• The Sea Eagles have 4 teams – NRL, U20, U18 & U16 

• The Sea Eagles play all home games at Brookvale Oval 

• The U20, U18 & U16 train only at Narrabeen while the NRL team train at Brookvale Oval the day before 

a home game and when the field at Narrabeen (situated next to a lake) has flooded during winter 

• The Sea Eagles have a 5 year licence (interim) with Warringah Council which runs from the start of 

February to the end of September (i.e. NRL season) 

• During the licence period they have exclusive use of Brookvale Oval for their 12 home games as well 

as a couple of training days at the start of the season 

• There is a 2 day bump in/out either side of game day (i.e. exclusive use of oval for 5 days) 

• There is a minimum of 2 games (sometimes 3) played on match day 

• Pre-season training runs from November to February and involves up to two sessions each day from 

Monday to Friday of 1.5 to 2.0 hours with 30 to 35 players; training during the season involves 3 

sessions of 1.5 hours per week 

• They are generally happy with the playing surface at Brookvale Oval but commented that it is very soft 

and they get “heavy legs”; drainage of the field is not too bad although the end goal area can get boggy 

• The Sea Eagles long term plan is to continue training at Narrabeen (i.e. they aim to renew current 

contract when it is up) and to continue to use Brookvale Oval for all home games and as a back up 

training venue in wet weather when they cannot train at Narrabeen 

• Ideally they would like no other sports played / usage on Brookvale Oval during the season so that it is 

kept in pristine condition for matches; however they would accept low impact use (eg. school use) but 

would like prior notification of this or any other use during the season 


Manly Rugby Club 

• Seven teams (firsts, seconds, thirds, fourths and three U20 teams) 

• Use Manly Oval for all their home games and training and are happy with this arrangement 

• Their main issue is at the back end of the season as cricket takes over Manly Oval in the middle of the 

finals. They have approached the Sea Eagles in the past to play final matches and to train on 

Brookvale Oval but their requests have been denied (they have never formally asked Council for 

access to Brookvale Oval) 

• They would like to be able to use Brookvale Oval in the future for matches and training during the finals 

when cricket takes over Manly Oval 

Manly Warringah Pittwater Sporting Union 

• Control ground allocation for Warringah Council 

• There is a shortage of sportsfields for all the major sports (i.e. Rugby Union, Rugby League, Soccer, 

Baseball, Cricket) 

• Participation is increasing for all major sports 

• No new sportsfields have been built in the past 20 years and the population has increased significantly 

• Difficult to schedule any sports during the NRL season as there is no consistent day the oval is 

available every week 

• There is only a very short period that the oval is available during summer (i.e. from November after 

renovation until the end of January); all sports have a break over Christmas / New Year period which 

further reduces the length of the season 

• Some infrastructure would be required for other sports if they were to use Brookvale Oval 

• Frisbee is becoming more popular and could possibly use Brookvale Oval during summer 

St Augustine’s College 

• Located opposite Brookvale Park 

• Year 5 to 12 boys, 1,085 students (5 years ago only had 500 students) 

• Current sporting facilities; ~1,000m 2 grassed area at front of school, 3 cricket nets, cardio room, 

weights room & multi-purpose gymnasium (which is also used for functions & exams) 

• Main issue with the School is the lack of space for PE classes especially when the grassed area or 

gymnasium is being used by another class or for exams or a function 

• Have only formally used Brookvale Oval once in the past for a inter-school game of rugby but have 

used the lawn area & cricket nets in Brookvale Park 

• Have tried to use Brookvale Oval in the past but were denied access by the groundsman 

• Would like to have some reciprocal use of Brookvale Oval as the Sea Eagles use the school’s facilities 

(i.e. car parking, warm ups on grassed area, changing rooms etc.) on match day during the season 

• Would like to be able to use the oval during school hours in overflow situations (i.e. on an ad-hoc basis) 

when their facilities (i.e. grassed area / gymnasium) are being used by other classes. Ad-hoc usage 

would involve one class – softball, touch footy trials etc.; no line markings would be required, field 

marked with witches hats; school would look after risk management 

• Would also like to be able to use the oval for the occasional game 

Brookvale Public School 

• Located opposite Brookvale Oval 

• Primary School (kindergarten to Year 6), 210 students 

• Current sporting facilities; ~ 200m 2 grassed area, playground 

• Have used Brookvale Oval in the past (at no cost) for athletics carnival 

• Would like to be able to use the oval in future for footy training, PE classes etc. 

• Usage of oval would have to be at a minimal cost 


Parks Leisure Australia 

• There is a shortfall of sporting facilities within the region 

• There is a greater number of people playing sport in general; especially juniors (football), women (touch 

football, Austag & soccer) and older people (various Masters Competitions, soccer etc.) 

• There is a perception within the community that the Sea Eagles have exclusive use of Brookvale Oval 

• There is some community sentiment that there should be greater public use / access to Brookvale Oval 

• Most local sporting groups/competitors would love to play on the same field that their football heroes 

play on. For example 3 or 4 matches could be played at Brookvale Oval on the weekends that the Sea 

Eagles are playing away from home and would have minimal impact on the playing surface. This would 

be a good public relations exercise for the Sea Eagles giving back something to the local community 


Appendix 4: Irrigation System Audit 

• Irrigation system audit with secondary water supply 

• Pressure testing with primary water supply pump 


Brookvale 


Audit Report 

Including: 

Table of Contents 

Report with Recommendations 

Proposed Schedule of Irrigation 

Appendices 

● Irrigation Management Pty Ltd – ABN 92 116 740 160 ● 

● Unit 9, 8 Millennium Court, Silverwater, NSW 2128 ● 

● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 

● Web: www.irrigationmanagement.com.au 

Page 1

CONTENTS 

1:OBJECTIVES........................................................................................... 4 

2: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ........................................................................ 5 

A: System Performance .............................................................................. 5 

B: Secondary Water Supply in Operation................................................... 5 

C: Précis of Recommendations................................................................... 6 

D: Resource Savings .................................................................................. 6 

3:METHODOLIGIES ................................................................................... 7 

4: IRRIGATION ......................................................................................... 12 

4.1. Overview ............................................................................................ 12 

4.1.1. Soil .................................................................................................. 12 

4.1.2. Readily Available Water (RAW) ...................................................... 13 

4.1.3. Infiltration Rate................................................................................ 13 

4.1.4. Root Depth...................................................................................... 14 

4.1.5. Turf.................................................................................................. 14 

4.1.6. Sprinkler Heads............................................................................... 15 

4.1.7 Operating Pressures ........................................................................ 16 

4.1.8. Distribution Uniformity ..................................................................... 22 

4.1.9. Scheduling Coefficient .................................................................... 25 

4.1.10. Local Climate ................................................................................ 26 

5: IRRIGATION SCHEDULING................................................................. 27 

6: RECOMMENDATION FOR GROUNDS SYSTEM UPGRADE ............. 29 

7: SYSTEM CONTROL............................................................................. 30 

7.1: Recommendations for control system ................................................ 30 

8: PUMPING UNIT.................................................................................... 30 

9: PLAN FOR ACTION.............................................................................. 31 

9.1 Limitations and opportunities .............................................................. 31 

9.1.1 Limitations........................................................................................ 31 

9.1.2 Opportunities.................................................................................... 31 

10: OVERALL RECOMMENDATIONS ..................................................... 32 

10.1.1: On Ground Works ......................................................................... 32 

10.1. 2: Control System............................................................................. 32 

10.1. 3: Management ................................................................................ 33 

APPENDIX 1: Toro 640 sprinkler performance data. ................................ 34 

APPENDIX 2: Toro 640 sprinkler SPACE performance data .................... 35 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 2

FIGURES 

Figure 1 Sprinkler layout ...................................................................................8 

Figure 2 Sprinkler spacing .......................................................................9 

Figure 3 Valve numbering ......................................................................10 

Figure 4 Zone numbering.......................................................................11 

Figure 5 Variation in Turf Coverage .......................................................17 

Figure 6 Poor sprinkler alignment ..........................................................17 

Figure 7 Damaged or missing sprinkler..................................................17 

Figure 8 Uneven turf coverage...............................................................18 

Figure 9 Turf thatch around sprinkler head ............................................18 

Figure 10: Current and Proposed Water Usage and Cost......................28 

TABLES 

Table 1: Sprinkler Legend ................................................................................19 

Table 2: Zone 2 Data ........................................................................................22 

Table 3: Zone 6,7,10 Data ...............................................................................23 

Table 4: Zone 1 Data ........................................................................................23 

Table 5: Simplified Irrigation Base Schedule..........................................27 

Table 6: Current and Proposed Water Usage and Costs.......................28 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 3

1:OBJECTIVES 

The scope of the audit was to identify efficiencies currently affecting the operation of 

the irrigation system. The following areas were focused on in assessing irrigation 

Water Use Efficiency (WUE): 

• Assessment of Distribution uniformity (DU) this identifies the evenness of 

water application over the targeted irrigation area 

• Assessment of current water precipitation rates and field infiltration rates 

• Identification of system constraints to WUE (Water use efficiency) 

• Assessment of current irrigation practices used on site 

• Assessment of system pressures 

• Identified areas where water is being misused due to incorrect management 

of existing equipment. 

• Identify mechanical issues effecting the irrigation system operation and price 

to rectify these issues 

• Develop a site specific irrigation schedule 

This audit was undertaken to provide the following for Brookvale Oval: 

• Clearer picture on all the above criteria 

• Recommendations and action plans providing strategies, schedules and 

processes resulting in a more efficient water management and lower water 

costs 

• Ensure best practice water use guide lines are met 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 4

2: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 

Irrigation Management was commissioned by Sports Turf Consultants to carry out an 

irrigation audit on Brookvale Oval. The audit was performed on Friday 8 th January 

2010. 

The audit included: 

• Visual inspection of all irrigation assets 

• Field assessment of system performance 

We have identified the following operating concerns: 

A: System Performance 

• Varying operating pressures throughout the system 

• Poor distribution uniformities 

• Varying application rates 

• Broken sprinklers 

• Inaccurate sprinkler alignment 

• Varying sprinkler nozzle sizes 

• Varying sprinkler spacing’s 

• Faulty rain delay switch 

• Poor irrigation controller programming 

B: Secondary Water Supply in Operation 

• Irrigation pump had been removed for servicing and repair resulting in the 

secondary water supply option being used for the oval irrigation. This water 

supply being a 50mm potable supply protected with a RPZ device. 

All the above have lead to inefficient water use. 

The following audit will explain in detail the current systems capabilities and 

recommendations for improvement. In addition, we have proposed that an additional 

audit is completed when the irrigation pump has been repaired and replaced 

providing further in-depth operation performance data. 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 5

C: Précis of Recommendations 

The audit of the system revealed the following recommendations would enhance the 

irrigation system performance 

• Align noted sprinklers vertically 

• Ensure correct degree of arc is used for boundary sprinklers 

• Raise or lower sprinklers to correct levels 

• Replace damaged and missing sprinklers 

• Replace and maintain consistency with sprinkler nozzle sizes used through 

out the oval 

• Implement a system maintenance programme 

• Practice irrigation scheduling as detailed in this document 

• Provide training to key personnel in irrigation scheduling and system 

maintenance 

• Replace the faulty rain delay device and install in an appropriate location 

• Install soil moisture sensors 

Full Recommendations are included in section 13 of this document 

D: Resource Savings 

It is evident that water and input savings of up to 21% can be achieved by adopting 

procedures as detailed within this document 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 6

3:METHODOLIGIES 

To assess the irrigation efficiency on this oval the following steps were carried out. 

• Identification and inspection of all existing equipment 

• Location of the connecting water supply point 

• Identification of pumping units and control systems 

• The irrigation system was activated in its current configuration 

• Sprinkler head operation and condition noted 

• Sprinkler head alignment and operating pressures recorded 

• Catch cans distributed at even intervals to record sprinkler distribution 

uniformity (D.U.) and precipitation rates 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 7

Figure 1 Sprinkler layout 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 8

Figure 2 Sprinkler spacing 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 9

Figure 3 Valve numbering (hydraulic converters left to right, top to bottom) 

NOTE: Valves 2, 6, 12, 17, 18 and 24 are not in use 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 10

Figure 4 Zone numbering (Hunter ICC irrigation controller) 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 11

4: IRRIGATION 

4.1. Overview 

In order to determine the watering requirement of the playing fields, the soil texture, 

structure and turf species should be examined. 

Efficient water management incorporates a number of major components including 

• Soil 

• Readily available water (RAW) 

• Infiltration rate 

• Effective plant root depth 

• Plant Species 

The system must be responsive to the individuality of each component and its 

respective influence on the outcome. 

An outline of these components is presented in points 4.1.1 to 4.1.5. 

4.1.1. Soil 

The soil texture and structure are an integral part in developing an irrigation schedule 

as the soil and the plant effective root zone determine the amount of water that can 

be stored around their roots. 

To establish the soil conditions at the ground a soil core sample should be taken in a 

representative location to establish the texture and depth of each of the horizons 

within the soil and to measure the root depth. 

Different soil profiles can store different amounts of water and as such it is important 

to determine the readily available water (RAW) in the soil so that irrigation can occur 

when required and irrigation scheduling can be carried out with confidence. If the soil 

type on the playing field is uniform the same irrigation schedule can be applied 

across the whole playing surface. 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 12

4.1.2. Readily Available Water (RAW) 

The soil texture determines the amount of water that can be held in the soil. Clay and 

loam soils hold more readily available water (RAW) that the plant can access. This 

differs from the lighter soils such as sand and sandy loam. The net affect of this is 

that with sandy soil, readily available water (RAW) is depleted more quickly and 

requires replenishing with smaller amounts of water more regularly. The foremost 

ways to increase RAW values include; 

• Increase the organic matter content of the soil 

• Adding water retention media 

• Encouraging a deeper plant effective root zone 

• Improving soil texture 

4.1.3. Infiltration Rate 

The infiltration rate is a measure of how quickly the soils can absorb moisture and is 

a function of soil texture and structure. If the rate of infiltration for a particular soil is 

less than the rate of application, pooling of water will occur and eventually run-off will 

occur. This is applicable for both irrigation and rainfall situations. It is therefore 

important that soil structures are constantly monitored. 

The soils provide the natural drainage for water and a poor infiltration rate will limit 

the effectiveness of the irrigation and will cause the ground to become ‘boggy’ after 

minor rainfall events. This is not apparent on Brookvale Oval. The soil type on this 

oval is well drained and has a high infiltration rate. 

The infiltration on this type of soil can be as high as 25mm per hour for coarse sandy 

loams to 19mm per hour for fine sandy loams. It is important that irrigation design 

application rates never exceed soil infiltration rates. If the application rate is higher 

than the infiltration rate, ponding and run off can occur. This was not evident on this 

site during testing. 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 13

4.1.4. Root Depth 

The root depth is also very important in determining the scheduling. 

It is widely accepted that the deeper the roots, the more drought tolerant the turf will 

be. The soil acts as a storage reservoir for water and the deeper the roots, the more 

of reservoir the turf can utilise giving a more effective the natural water storage. 

As the plant will require the same amount of water no matter what the root depth, it is 

again an important process for determining how often the plant needs water. Plants 

with a shallower root zone will require shorter, more frequent applications of water as 

opposed to those with deep roots which require deeper watering and less frequency. 

Roots below the major root zone are mainly subsistence roots and only come into 

play during harsher conditions by which time the plant health and productivity is 

being adversely affected. Therefore irrigation applications below the major root zone 

depth are wasted and are largely out of reach of the plant. An occasional leaching 

deep application of water can be applied to remove accumulated salts to beyond the 

reach of the plant. This is only recommended when using high salinity irrigation 

water. 

4.1.5. Turf 

The condition of the turf was variable with good coverage on most areas however 

some patchiness was evident which coincided with areas of very poor irrigation 

performance 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 14

4.1.6. Sprinkler Heads 

Each sprinkler was individually inspected to establish its effectiveness in distributing 

water. 

In order to be efficient and operate within its designed parameters a sprinkler head 

• must be free from leaks 

• sit perpendicular with the ground 

• extrude high enough from the ground such that the flow of water is not 

interrupted by grass thatch. 

• The nozzle type was also recorded where possible for each sprinkler head as 

different size and coloured nozzles represent different operating conditions, 

flows and pressure. Hence the nozzle size or colour (which depicts the 

nozzle size on some sprinkler types) determines the wetted radius and 

wetting pattern of the surrounding area. If these are not coordinated with the 

other sprinkler heads there will be an uneven distribution of water throughout 

the system 

A sprinkler inventory for the irrigation systems was produced detailing the 

• make and model of the heads, 

• nozzle sizes 

• comment on condition 

• sprinkler condition 

• recommendations for any actions required to improve operating efficiency. 

See Table 1 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 15

4.1.7 Operating Pressures 

The pressure at the sprinkler heads should ideally show variations with a maximum 

variation of 10 %. 

Pressure variations were identified throughout greater than 10% with some area 

losses being as high as 40%. This is normally created by incorrect hydraulic design 

or may indicate leaks and thus loss of pressure within the system. No major leaks 

were evident. 

The variation of sprinkler nozzle sizes apparent in some zones does effect the 

operating pressure of these zones. The pressure was measured for a selection of 

sprinkler heads to determine if the system was operating to its designed capacity. 

Sprinkler nozzle size variation between zones should be avoided to allow matching of 

operating pressures and outputs. 

No major leaks were evident on this site. It is recommended that after system 

upgrades that operating pressures be checked and set to system recommendations 

as determined by sprinkler make and nozzle size requirement. This assists in 

determining the entire hydraulic characteristics of the system. 

The hydraulic design of the system is largely unknown and several assumptions have 

been made. Further testing after the system upgrade will assist in determining 

hydraulic efficiency. As the in ground pipe work appears sound with no leaks, the 

pipe work does not require further upgrade at this stage. 

Decisions relating to pipe work and irrigation system upgrade should not be made 

until after the recommended system adjustments have been carried out and system 

hydraulic characteristics have been determined. Additionally the irrigation system 

should be operated with the pump in place and operational to determine an accurate 

assessment of the system performance with its primary intended water source. 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 16

Figure 5 Variation in Turf Coverage 

Figure 6 Poor sprinkler alignment 

Figure 7 Damaged or missing sprinkler 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 17

Figure 8 Uneven turf coverage 

Figure 9 Turf thatch around sprinkler head 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 18

Table 1 Sprinkler Legend 

Zone / Sprinkler Sprinkler Make Model Nozzle Size Operating Pressure kPa Comment Recommendation 

1.1 Toro 640 hydraulic VIH 43 300 


1.3 Toro 640 hydraulic VIH - 375 Rubber top missing 

1.4 Toro 640 hydraulic VIH 44 250 Low pressure 


2.2 Toro 640 hydraulic VIH 42 375 Rubber top damaged, Sprinkler 

angled alignment 





3.3 Toro 640 hydraulic VIH 43 250 Sprinkler angled alignment 

Low pressure 


4.1 Toro 640 hydraulic VIH 42 350 Sprinkler not rotating 



4.4 Toro 640 hydraulic VIH 43 300 Sprinkler arc alignment required 

Possible leak around head 





● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 19




Low pressure 

6.2 Toro 640 hydraulic VIH - - Sprinkler insert missing 


Low pressure 


7.1 Toro 640 hydraulic VIH - 300 Sprinkler arc alignment required 

7.2 Toro 640 hydraulic VIH 42 350 Incorrect sprinkler installed, 

360deg should be 180deg 



8.1 Toro 640 hydraulic VIH 43 250 Sprinkler damaged 

Sprinkler not rotating 

Low pressure 


8.3 Toro 640 hydraulic VIH 43 250 Sprinkler arc alignment 

Low pressure 

8.4 Toro 640 hydraulic VIH - 250 Sprinkler not rotating 

Low pressure 





● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 20


10.1 Toro 640 hydraulic VIH 42 350 Incorrect sprinkler installed, 





Sprinkler angled alignment 

Incorrect sprinkler installed, 


** VIH denotes Valve in Head sprinkler 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 21

4.1.8. Distribution Uniformity 

The aim of an irrigation system should be to achieve the maximum output for 

minimal input. The distribution uniformity (DU) of an irrigation system is a measure of the 

systems efficiency. 

This figure identifies how even the distribution of water is over the irrigated area. 

To obtain this information a number of ‘catch can’ tests were carried out at the site 

Catch can tests measures the precipitation rate and evenness of water application being 

applied. 

The results of the catch can test enable calculations to be made on the current efficiency 

of the system and to make recommendations on improvements if necessary. 

The results of these tests are detailed in Tables 2,3,4 

Table 2: Zone 2 Data 

Station 2 - Brookvale Oval 

Row Timed Catch mm / hour each can 

Total 

Number 

1 - 5.7 8.4 11.4 9.0 - 

2 9.0 7.2 6.9 9.6 10.8 7.8 

3 6.0 7.8 5.4 2.7 5.4 3.3 

4 7.2 7.8 4.8 5.1 4.5 6.6 

5 6.3 6.6 8.1 11.4 13.2 6.3 

6 - 3.9 12.0 11.4 7.5 - 

Totals 28.5 39.0 45.6 51.6 50.4 24.0 239.1 

Average mm/hr precipitation 7.47 

Sprinkler type: 

Toro 640 hydraulic valve in head 

Total catch cans 32 

MAR (mean application rate) 7.47 mm / hour 

DU (distribution uniformity) 59% (72% is the minimum industry standard 

requirement for turf grass irrigation design) 

Scheduling Coefficient 

1.70 (1.5 is average however the closer to 1.0 the 

better) 

Operating Pressure 

375kPa Average (450kpa operating pressure ideal) 

Number of Sprinklers 4 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 22

Table 3 : Zone 6,7,10 Data 


Total 

Number 

1 3.3 10.5 12.0 9.3 8.4 - 

2 3.9 7.5 11.1 9.9 9.6 7.2 

3 7.8 3.0 3.3 13.5 13.2 13.2 

4 6.6 4.2 7.5 9.6 8.1 9.0 

5 6.6 7.2 12.3 9.6 10.5 19.8 

6 - 4.5 9.3 10.2 16.5 - 

Totals 28.2 36.9 55.5 62.1 66.3 49.2 298.2 





MAR (mean application rate) 9.04 mm / hour 

DU (distribution uniformity) 49% (72% is the minimum industry standard 


Scheduling Coefficient 

2.04 (1.5 is average however the closer to 1.0 the 

better) 




Table 4 : Zone 1 Data 


Total 

Number 

1 - 6.9 7.2 13.5 9.3 - 

2 9.0 7.8 12.9 15.9 14.7 7.2 

3 9.0 7.5 6.3 9.0 12.3 9.0 

4 9.3 10.8 4.5 3.0 7.2 8.4 

5 3.3 3.3 0.6 0.3 3.9 4.2 

6 0.0 0.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 

Totals 30.6 36.6 31.5 41.7 47.4 28.8 216.6 




MAR (mean application rate) 

DU (distribution uniformity) 

Scheduling Coefficient 13.65 




6.37 mm / hour 

7% (72% is the minimum industry standard 





● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 23

The distribution uniformity on this oval was poor and a wide range of mean application 

rates (MAR) were evident and can be attributed to; 

• Variation in sprinkler nozzle sizes 

• Variation and low water pressures 

• The variation in sprinkler spacing and placement has some affect on the system 

performance. 

However sprinkler spacing’s and placement are already determined on this site, 

therefore correct selection of sprinklers type and nozzle sizes are important in assisting 

to alleviate this problem. It is important that all sprinkler outputs and performance are 

matched to the duty required. 

Pressures that are too low or too high can have a dramatic effect on system performance 

and should match manufactures recommendations. Best practice suggests that 

operating pressures are checked at least twice a year, this gives a good indication of the 

systems operational condition. 

For sprinkler irrigation systems an acceptable Distribution Uniformity (DU) of 75% – 85% 

is achievable on new systems. This is sometimes difficult to achieve in older systems 

with the lay out already in place, as is the case with this oval however by changing 

sprinkler nozzles and setting operating pressures, positive outcomes are possible for 

Brookvale Oval. 

The Distribution Uniformity (DU) for the oval varies from a low of 7% to a high of 59% as 

indicated on zones 1 and zone 2. 

Low Distribution Uniformity (DU) numbers indicate areas that are either very wet or very 

dry throughout the oval following an irrigation event. A good indication of this is 

evidenced by variation in turf coverage and health as shown in Figure 5. It is evident 

from the results and visual inspection that there is no routine maintenance program in 

place. 

Maintenance should be programmed at least twice a year before and during critical 

irrigation seasons. Such programs should include inspections of all sprinklers to ensure 

• Correct operation 

• Correct alignment 

• Correct operating pressures 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 24

Any misalignment should be adjusted, damage to sprinkles repaired and adjustments 

made to operating pressures as required. All of these check results should be 

documented for future reference. 

Appendix 2 Shows a possible DU of 72% and a scheduling coefficient of 1.6 for a 

selected Toro 640 Number 44 Nozzle at 450 kPa sprinkler which is a vast improvement 

on the existing system. 

Note that the reports in Appendix 2 are based on a number 44 nozzle for all 360 degree 

sprinklers and for all 180 degree sprinklers, however the station run times for the 180 

degree sprinklers must be half that of the 360 degree sprinklers to match the duty. 

4.1.9. Scheduling Coefficient 

Using the results from the catch can test and the soil profile studies it is possible to 

develop irrigation schedules based on the current conditions. The scheduling co-efficient 

(SC) is also determined from the catch can test and is integral in the modelling. 

As the even distribution of water is never at an optimum it is necessary to run the 

irrigation for longer so that the area receiving the least amount of water receives the 

minimum amount required for plant water requirement therefore the lower the scheduling 

coefficient the less wastage of resources. 

The scheduling co-efficient has been taken into account for the irrigation modelling at its 

current required level and its theoretical level once the system has been improved. 

Generally, a scheduling coefficient should not be higher than 1.3 but results from 

the audit show that with current inefficiencies scheduling coefficients would exceed 2 in 

most zones and exceed 13 in the most inefficient zones if the desired turf quality is to be 

achieved. 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 25

4.1.10. Local Climate 

Irrigation scheduling is based on three data inputs 

• Soil type, 

• Plant type 

• Weather data 

These allow calculations to be made as to when irrigation events should occur. 

Rainfall must be considered when implementing irrigation schedules with practices set in 

place to avoid irrigating when unnecessary i.e. after significant rainfall events. 

Three ways to avoid over watering during wet periods are: 

• Install rain cut off devices in parallel with the irrigation controller which cut off the 

irrigation system during rain periods (most basic option) 

• Install soil moisture sensing devices which over ride the irrigation controller when 

enough soil moisture is present and irrigation is not needed, a simpler form of 

these devices continually logs soil moisture levels and is a tool for management 

to manually base irrigation event timings on (more in-depth option) 

• Install and utilise an evapotranspiration (ET) system which automatically 

develops an exact program to fit the requirements of each irrigation zone based 

on plant species, plant maturity, soil type, slop % of surface, sun exposure, 

sprinkler type and direct weather readings of rainfall, solar intensity and wind 

speed. (ideal option) 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 26

5: IRRIGATION SCHEDULING 

Irrigation scheduling is defined as applying the correct amount of water at the correct time. Irrigation scheduling is a very effective water 

saving practice as water is only applied to the effective root zone of the specific plant species grown within local conditions and soil types. 

Table 5: Simplified Irrigation Base Schedule 

Month 

Minimum 

recommended 

plant requirement 

(mm / month) 

Adjusted to 

minimum 72% DU 

(mm / month) 

Mean 

Precipitation Rate 

data 9.8mm / hr 

required irrigation 

(hrs) 

Number of Days 

between irrigation 

applications 

Average number 

of Irrigation Days 

Run Time per 

irrigation zone 

January 112 155.6 15.9 1 16 60 

February 96 133.3 13.6 1 14 58 

March 84 116.7 11.9 1 15 48 

April 65 90.3 9.2 2 10 55 

May 45 62.5 6.4 2 11 35 

June 36 50.0 5.1 3 7 44 

July 42 58.3 5.9 3 8 44 

August 60 83.3 8.5 2 10 51 

September 77 106.9 10.9 2 10 65 

October 94 130.6 13.3 1 15 53 

November 102 141.7 14.5 1 15 58 

December 120 166.7 17.0 1 16 64 

(mins) 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 27

Table 6 details the approximate water use under the current system operational 

conditions shown in columns 1 and 2 and the savings that can be accomplished by 

improving overall system performance and practicing effective irrigation scheduling, 

shown in columns 3 and 4. It must be noted however that the figures detailed rely on 

current estimated system flow rates as no historical water use data is available. 

This model may not reflect real current usage and does not take into account useful 

rainfall events 

Table 6: Current and Proposed Water Usage and Costs 

Month 

Estimated Estimated 

Possible Water Possible Water 

Current Water Current Water 

Use M 3 

Cost at $1.90 M 3 Use M 3 

Cost at $1.90 M 3 

Jan 2807 $5,333.30 2284 $4,339.60 

Feb 2591 $4,922.90 1932 $3,670.80 

Mar 2915 $5,538.50 1713 $3,254.70 

Apr 2807 $5,333.30 1308 $2,485.20 

May 2807 $5,333.30 916 $1,740.40 

Jun 2807 $5,333.30 733 $1,392.70 

Jul 2807 $5,333.30 837 $1,590.30 

Aug 2915 $5,538.50 1213 $2,304.70 

Sep 2807 $5,333.30 1546 $2,937.40 

Oct 2807 $5,333.30 1891 $3,592.90 

Nov 2807 $5,333.30 2070 $3,933.00 

Dec 2915 $5,538.50 2436 $4,628.40 

Totals 33,792 $64,204.80 18,879 $35,870.10 

70,000 

60,000 

50,000 

40,000 

30,000 

20,000 

10,000 

0 

current 

water use 

proposed 

water use 

current 

water cost 

proposed 

water cost 

Figure 10: Current and Proposed Water Usage and Cost 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 28

6: RECOMMENDATION FOR GROUNDS SYSTEM UPGRADE 

From the testing and inspections that have taken place it evident that the irrigation 

system in its present state requires major maintenance to ensure efficient irrigation and 

to meet best practice irrigation guidelines. 

• Nozzle sizes were not matched to duty 

• Alignment of sprinklers was poor with many sprinklers wetting tarmac outside the 

oval 

• Many sprinklers were set too low 

• Sprinklers were not vertical to the surface 

All of which has an effect on overall performance of the system. 

It is suggested that following recommendations be carried out: 

• Replace all sprinklers nozzles of various sizes with a common size, it is 

recommended that Sprinklers suitable could include Toro model 640 fitted with 

number 44 nozzles. See Appendix 1 for performance data 

• Align all sprinklers both vertically and for degree of arc , sprinklers should not be 

over spraying on surrounding tarmac 

• Try to achieve even irrigation zone operating pressures, the sprinklers above 

operate efficiently at 450kPa, this can be achieved by grouping valves together to 

achieve consistent flow rates for each irrigation zone and taking readings at 

sprinkler nozzles with appropriate equipment 

• Raise or lower sprinklers to correct levels, this ensures evenness of trajectory 

with no interference from surrounding turf. 

• Practice irrigation scheduling as detailed in this document. 

• Implement a programmed maintenance system to ensure ongoing efficient 

operation of the system 

• On completion of the system upgrade further testing should be carried out to 

determine final operating precipitation rates and uniformity, this will allow fine 

tuning of irrigation schedules and hydraulic assessment of the existing pipe work. 


maintenance which would be beneficial to the operation of this and other systems 

within the control of employees. 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 29

7: SYSTEM CONTROL 

Currently the irrigation sprinkler system is being controlled by a Hunter ICC 32 station 

modular controller housed under the camera tower. This controller allows the irrigation 

system to be controlled on a time only basis and has not utilised the inputs to allow for 

system shut down if rain is occurring or conditions are too windy for efficient irrigation. 

The system is adequate for the job however upgrading the control system with a back to 

base control system, such as the Hunter IMMS, would allow greater control and flexibility 

of irrigation events. 

Back to base central control would be beneficial which could process data such as 

• soil moisture 

• rainfall events 

• wind conditions 

• Water usage 

These controllers also have the ability to log all events and can give accurate reports on 

water usage. 

7.1: Recommendations for control system 





speed. ET sensors are a valuable tool used in irrigation scheduling and it is 

recommended that this option is seriously considered at this oval. The 

manufacture of the current irrigation controller being used on site have an 

appropriate sensor which is compatible with the existing irrigation controller. 

• Investigate upgraded back to base controller systems to allow greater monitoring 

of irrigation events and control of the irrigation events based on feedback from 

infield monitoring devices. 

8: PUMPING UNIT 

During the time of the audit the irrigation pump had been removed for repair and the 

irrigation system was operating directly from the potable water mains. The irrigation 

system appears to be operating satisfactorily however upon closer inspection, testing 

and analysis the inefficiencies are greatly highlighted. It is recommended that an 

additional audit is performed with the irrigation pump in place so that a true reflection of 

the irrigation system can be gained. 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 30

9: PLAN FOR ACTION 

9.1 Limitations and opportunities 

9.1.1 Limitations 

Currently the overall ability of grounds staff to maintain the peak water requirement of the 

turf is being severely limited by the inefficiency of the system and its capacity to deliver 

an even amount of water across the oval 

This is leading to areas that are; 

• over watered 

• under watered 

Over watered areas also suffer from the leaching of nutrients which may find their way 

into surrounding water table, which is an environmental concern. 

A much more efficient system would allow for more frequent irrigation events of a lesser 

time resulting in a net saving in water and resources. 

9.1.2 Opportunities 

The opportunity exists for Brookvale Oval to put in place best practice irrigation and set 

benchmarks, in efficient irrigation water use. The desirable outcomes from the system 

upgrades and the introduction of irrigation scheduling and monitoring devices will 

include: 

• Better overall turf health 

• Evenness of turf coverage 

• Saving is water use 

• Leaching of nutrients to water tables will not occur and will stay within reach of 

the plant roots 

• Resource savings, energy, fertilisers, water, labour. 

• Environmental issues including, excessive energy use, increased water table 

health are incumbent benefits of efficient irrigation 

• Economic savings are coupled very closely to the savings evident in the previous 

point 

• Social benefits include Brookvale Oval to be recognised as an efficient water 

user, and may inspire a follow on effect by other users. 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 31

10: OVERALL RECOMMENDATIONS 

Recommendations located throughout this document are grouped into various areas as 

follows; 

10.1.1: On Ground Works 

• Replace all sprinklers of various nozzle sizes with a common nozzle relative to 

the sprinkler location, it is recommended that the suitable nozzle size could 

include Toro model 640 fitted with number 44 nozzles for 360. See Appendix 1 

for performance data 

• Align all sprinklers both vertically and for degree of arc , sprinklers should not be 

over spraying on surrounding tarmac and fences 

• Set all zone operating pressures evenly , the sprinklers above operate efficiently 

at 450kPa this can achieved by grouping valves to achieve even flow rates and 

taking readings at sprinkler nozzles with appropriate equipment 

• Raise or lower sprinklers to correct levels, this ensures evenness of trajectory 

with no interference from the surrounding turf 

• Repair or replace damaged and missing sprinklers 

• Replace the irrigation pump which should provide system pressures more 

appropriate to the sprinkler operating recommendations 

• On completion of the system upgrade further testing should be carried out to 

determine final operating precipitation rates and uniformity, this will allow fine 

tuning of irrigation schedules and hydraulic assessment of the existing pipework. 

10.1. 2: Control System 





speed. ET sensors are a valuable tool used in irrigation scheduling and it is 

recommended that this option is seriously considered at this oval. The 

manufacture of the current irrigation controller being used on site have an 

appropriate sensor which is compatible with the existing irrigation controller. 

• Investigate upgraded back to base controller systems to allow greater monitoring 

of irrigation events and control of the irrigation events based on feedback from 

infield monitoring devices. 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 32

10.1. 3: Management 

• Practice irrigation scheduling as detailed in this document. 

• Implement a programmed maintenance system to ensure ongoing efficient 

operation of the system 


maintenance which would be beneficial to the operation of this and other systems 

within the control of employees 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 33

APPENDIX 1: Toro 640 sprinkler performance data. 

• mm/hr 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 34

APPENDIX 2: Toro 640 sprinkler SPACE performance data. 

Highest precipitation rate 

Precipitation 

(inches / hr) 

Lowest precipitation rate 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 35

Page 1 

Brookvale 




● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 

● Web: www.irrigationmanagement.com.au

Zone / Sprinkler Sprinkler Make Model Nozzle Size Operating Pressure kPa Comment 






2.2 Toro 640 hydraulic VIH 42 480 Rubber top damaged, Sprinkler angled alignment 







4.1 Toro 640 hydraulic VIH 42 460 Sprinkler not rotating 




Possible leak around head 







● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 2






7.2 Toro 640 hydraulic VIH 42 480 Incorrect sprinkler installed, 360deg should be 180deg 



8.1 Toro 640 hydraulic VIH 43 350 Sprinkler damaged 



8.3 Toro 640 hydraulic VIH 43 350 Sprinkler arc alignment 

8.4 Toro 640 hydraulic VIH - 360 Sprinkler not rotating 

9.1 Toro 640 hydraulic VIH 42 600+ Sprinkler arc alignment required 

9.2 Toro 640 hydraulic VIH 43 560 Sprinkler angled alignment Sprinkler not rotating 

10.1 Toro 640 hydraulic VIH 42 430 Incorrect sprinkler installed, 360deg should be 180deg 




Sprinkler angled alignment Incorrect sprinkler 

installed, 360deg should be 180deg 

** VIH denotes Valve in Head sprinkler 



● Phone: 02 9748 6178 ● Fax: 02 9748 6179 ● 


Page 3

Brookvale Oval Investigation - Warringah Council - NSW Government

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template?