Eastern Oval grandstand to undergo repair works

One of Ballarat’s historic sporting gems is set to undergo an important facelift. 

The Eastern Oval grandstand is in line for repair works over summer to renew and repair building damage that has developed over time. 

The City of Ballarat has put the project out for tender and is seeking expressions of interest to complete the works. 

The restoration works will include: 

• Repairs to roof plumbing 

• Renewal of bird proofing 

• Removal and replacement of timber flooring to the grandstand 

• Installation of flashings to the grandstand sub floor structure 

• Repairs to inground stormwater 

• Renewal of ceilings and services to storeroom areas 

The historic wooden bench seating is likely to be removed while works are carried out, although it will be returned after the timber flooring is restored. 

The grandstand, dating back to 1904, will be closed to the public while works are being conducted. 

City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Des Hudson said it was vital to protect such historic community assets. 

“The Eastern Oval grandstand has been around longer than anyone in Ballarat has been alive,” Cr Hudson said. 

“Every now and then it is going to need some love and attention, as all historic structures do. 

“It should only be a matter of months before we see it restored to its magnificent best.” 

The City of Ballarat's Recreation Services team will liaise with sporting groups to ensure that any impact on programming is managed. It is not anticipated that sporting groups will be detrimentally impacted by the work. 

The Grace Elm, a heritage-protected tree planted in 1874 in honour of legendary English cricketer Dr W.G Grace, is unaffected by the works. 

It is hoped the project will start in early February, to be completed in time for the 2023 Ballarat Football Netball League season. 

The restoration works align with goals two and four of the City of Ballarat’s Council Plan 2021-2025:    

• Goal two – a healthy, connected and inclusive community 

• Goal four – a city that conserves and enhances our natural and built assets 

For more information on this project and to view the Expression of Interest documents, visit the City of Ballarat website by 12pm on 21 December 2022.