100 + 150mm
Draincoil® pipes
5+ kms
of pipe installed
10 week
timeframe
Overview
Project
Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)
Product
Vinidex Draincoil®
Application
Sub surface drainage
Project background
In 1993, a major reconstruction of the playing surface at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) was undertaken to resolve ongoing drainage and turf health issues. The project involved removing and replacing the entire surface, except for the centre wicket area. At the time, poor run-off and compacted soils had damaged the grass roots, making it increasingly difficult for ground staff to maintain the surface to the high standard required for Australia’s premier sporting arena.
Beneath the renewed surface, more than five kilometres of 100mm diameter Vinidex Draincoil® – a continuous slotted corrugated pipe designed for efficient subsoil drainage – was installed.
Challenge
The decision to completely reconstruct the playing surface presented a significant engineering challenge, with a tight 10-week timeframe to complete the works, while meeting demanding performance specifications.
With moisture control essential to the ground management of this iconic venue, the drainage solution had to be both efficient and durable.
Solution
Following the removal of the red mountain soil, 300mm-deep slot trenches were dug for the installation of Draincoil® by Vinidex. The pipe, together with base and top layers of gravel, was encased in geotextile envelopes for maximum control of water flow.
Vinidex supplied 100mm and 150mm Draincoil® flexible drainage pipe, along with a full suite of PVC fittings for the junctions and intersections.
The system was laid in a herringbone pattern across the ground in trenches approximately five metres apart, using 100mm Class 1000 slotted Draincoil® branch drains and 11 spines of solid wall Vinidex 150mm PVC-U Pipe.
The drainage system was installed in 15,000 cubic metres of material, comprising a 100mm layer of gravel, 280mm of sand, and the turf surface on top.
Outcome
The project transformed the playing surface of the MCG. Thanks to the extensive network of Draincoil® by Vinidex, the ground could be maintained to elite standards. The system played a vital role in managing seepage and run-off, supporting curators in delivering a world-class surface year-round. Efficient drainage ensured optimal water management and long-term turf health for one of the world’s most recognised sporting venues.
*Note: The information above refers to works completed in 1993. Current ground infrastructure may differ.
