COWES CRICKET NETS REDEVELOPMENT

Bass Coast Shire Council engaged iDwala to address significant safety and usability issues with the ageing cricket practice nets at Cowes Recreation Reserve. Invasive tree roots had compromised the existing concrete base, creating an uneven surface that not only posed risks to players but also limited the facility’s functionality.

Drawing on its technical design expertise, iDwala developed a comprehensive redesign that balanced performance requirements, community access, and long-term durability. The solution delivered a four-lane facility, incorporating two gated lanes for dedicated club training and two lanes open for public use. This configuration maximises utilisation, catering to structured club programs while encouraging casual community participation.

A key innovation was the application of a two-tone synthetic grass system, clearly distinguishing the central playing pitch from surrounding run-up areas to enhance user orientation and training effectiveness. Standard white crease lines were integrated for bowlers and batsmen, with additional junior markings to support skill progression for younger players.

From site assessment and design through to construction oversight, iDwala’s collaborative and detail-driven approach ensured the project met Council’s objectives for safety, accessibility, and functionality. The result is a durable, future-ready facility that has been highly praised by both the Club and Council, representing a strong return on investment and delivering enduring community value.

REDEVELOPMENT OF TWO NEW NETBALL COURTS AND LED LIGHTING

The City of Greater Dandenong received a $2 million Sport and Recreation Victoria (SRV) grant in 2022 to upgrade Springvale Reserve with modern netball facilities. iDwala was engaged to design the new courts, delivering a thoughtful solution that maximised space and community benefit.

The project included two new netball courts, each equipped with player and coach boxes and energy-efficient LED lighting, ensuring the space could be used both day and night. The location for the upgrade was a former CFA training area, acquired by Council as part of a broader park redevelopment.

Design challenges emerged due to limited available space, however iDwala’s design team navigated these swiftly and with precision. The narrow western edge of the reserve, adjacent to an existing sports oval, and a title boundary to the east, meant a traditional side-by-side court layout was not viable. iDwala’s solution was a face-to-face configuration that worked seamlessly within these constraints. To further improve functionality and game flow, the nearby dog park north of the courts was also fenced off to prevent interference during play.

The end result is a high-quality training and competition space that enhances Springvale Reserve and supports the District Netball Association. With improved infrastructure and extended usability, the new courts represent a lasting investment for the community sport to continue evolving.

REDEVELOPMENT OF TENNIS COURTS 3 AND 4

Tennis is more than just a sport at Diamond Creek – it’s a community connector. Set in the scenic surrounds of Nillumbuk Shire Council, the Diamond Creek Tennis Club is a not-for-profit facility offering six floodlit synthetic grass courts to players of all ages and abilities. To keep up with the needs of its growing community, the Nillumbuk Shire sought a detailed design for the redevelopment of Courts 3 and 4, and iDwala was engaged to bring this vision to life.

The existing courts had become uneven due to tree root intrusion beneath the pavement, and the outdated drainage system couldn’t adequately protect the surface. The existing courts are also situated within a sensitive bush area and iDwala had to provide a design that had to fit within the allowable space whilst minimising impact on the surrounding trees.

iDwala’s design focused on sustainability and playability – introducing a new underground drainage system and upgrading the courts with new synthetic grass, suitable for both social and competitive matches.

The end result is a rejuvenated sporting space that not only enhances the tennis experience but also supports the club’s long-term goal of increasing community participation. With this upgrade, Diamond Creek Tennis Club continues to serve as a welcoming and inclusive hub for local tennis enthusiasts.

REDEVELOPMENT OF TWO ACRYLIC TENNIS COURTS, NEW LED LIGHTING DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION

Nestled along the Murray River in Towong Shire, the small town of Biggara Valley – some 470km from Melbourne, serves as a close-knit hub for East and Southeast Victorian communities. To support this growing community, iDwala was engaged to design two new multipurpose courts catering to tennis, basketball, and netball, as part of a broader vision to enhance local recreation opportunities.

The scope included the installation of a basketball backboard, netball post and hoop, energy-efficient LED sports lighting, and a new DDA-compliant pathway linking the courts to the pavilion ensuring safe and inclusive access for all users.

One of the project’s key design challenges was future-proofing the site for a planned playground adjacent to the courts. iDwala’s solution ensured generous separation between both facilities, connected by a shared pathway. The northern boundary of the site also required innovative drainage design to address overland flows from a nearby dam. Purpose-built infrastructure was incorporated to divert water runoff and safeguard the new playing surface.

Through a thoughtful, forward-looking design approach, iDwala delivered a dynamic and resilient sports facility. The Biggara Valley courts now provide a welcoming community hub, ready to support the next generation of players and active residents alike.

BEFORE:

MILAWA NETBALL COURT

As part of a $200,000 upgrade to Milawa Recreation Reserve, the Rural City of Wangaratta supported by Federal funding, engaged iDwala as the lead Contractor to transform a deteriorating asphalt court into a high-performance facility fit for Netball Victoria competitions.

iDwala provided end-to-end delivery, from technical consultancy through to construction of the new sports surface. The redevelopment was centred on a new Australian made Laykold Advantage acrylic surface, on a new concrete pavement, selected for its durability, all-weather playability and performance consistency. In a cost-effective approach, the original asphalt court was retained and repurposed as a training space, allowing Council to deliver two usable courts within budget.

The works also included subsoil drainage upgrades, base preparation, compliant line marking, and future provisions for player shelters and lighting. The works also included provision of a scoreboard integrated into the new fence line.

Delivered on time for the start of the winter 2019 netball season, the result is a modern, safe, and competition-compliant court that has quickly gained strong community support and usage.

iDwala’s professionalism, technical expertise, and ability to deliver within tight timelines were key drivers leading to the variety of successful outcomes. This project stands as a testament to iDwala’s capability in delivering smart, community-focused infrastructure – balancing performance outcomes with practical budgeting and long-term value for regional sport participation.

DESIGN 2 NEW COMPETITION-GRADE NETBALL COURTS

Cardinia Shire Council engaged iDwala to design two new competition-standard netball courts at Gembrook Recreation Reserve, strategically located at the corner of Belgrave Emerald Road and Orchard Road. The project commenced construction in early 2020 and was completed ahead of the winter netball season in May 2020.

iDwala’s scope included full civil design and engineering services. Given the site’s natural slope and proximity to the Dandenong Ranges, the design incorporated careful earthworks and tailored drainage solutions to ensure stability and usability across all seasons. Future-forward thinking also saw provisions for player shelters, LED lighting, and spectator seating integrated into the overall design. The court surfaces feature a durable, multi-layer acrylic system that meets Netball Victoria standards, delivering consistent ball bounce, improved safety, and long-lasting performance.

The court layout was seamlessly incorporated into the existing landscape, with full DDA-compliant access to ensure inclusivity.

iDwala also oversaw the construction phase, managing contractors and materials to ensure quality execution. Finished in vibrant blue tones with precision line marking, the courts now offer a modern, professional look that are fit for purpose.

Since opening, the facility has been enthusiastically received by the local netball community, boosting participation and enhancing game-day experiences for all.