Athletes close to return at Landy Field following upgrades

THE finishing touches on athletics upgrades at John Landy Field in South Geelong are almost complete, with the City of Greater Geelong’s CEO confirming they will be complete before the start of 2025.

Using more than 50 tonnes of recycled crumbed rubber in upgrade works at the athletics facility, the City of Greater Geelong anticipates the track, along with field event structures, will be ready for use ahead of New Year’s Day.

In a City of Greater Geelong column last month, City chief executive Ali Wastie said the equivalent of 9,405 car tyres has gone into Landy Field’s new athletics track.

“Not only will the renewal of track allow Landy Field to retain its World Athletics Class 2 accreditation, it’s also a fantastic outcome for the environment too,” Ms Wastie said.

“This project is a great example of how the City of Greater Geelong is seeking to minimise waste, promote increased use of recycled materials in infrastructure and contribute to circular economies.”

Geelong Athletics confirmed in late-November line markings were completed prior to December, in addition to upgrades conducted to the hammer-throw and discuss cage.

The project marries up with an upcoming $10 million pavilion redevelopment and will secure itself as Geelong’s premier regional athletics facility.

Ms Wastie said it will help promote the growth of athletics in Geelong and attract high quality athletics events to our city.

“Design work is currently underway on the pavilion revamp, after the Victorian Government and the City of Greater Geelong committed $5 million each earlier this year,” Ms Wastie said.

“The redevelopment includes the construction of a new two-storey pavilion, a grandstand and other facility improvements.

“The new pavilion will feature a competition office, public toilets, change rooms, a kiosk, social and community spaces, a meeting room and a uniform store, as well as providing a main entry point to the complex.”

The City of Greater Geelong plans to appoint a head contractor in mid-2025 for the pavilion upgrade.