The first of 65 kilometres of new Tasmanian Oak floorboards is being laid at Dandenong Stadium, as seven of 15 courts start taking shape inside one of Victoria’s busiest indoor sporting venues.
Placed end to end, the timber would stretch from Dandenong Stadium to the MCG and back, with another five kilometres to spare.
Around 4700 square metres of sports flooring is being replaced, alongside major improvements to the structure beneath the courts. The new floor is expected to serve the community for up to 50 years.
Greater Dandenong Mayor, Councillor Sophie Tan, said it was exciting to see the new courts now being laid.
“More than 17,000 people come through the doors of Dandenong Stadium every week, from children taking their first shot to athletes competing at state and national level,” Cr Tan said.
“These courts have been part of our community since the stadium opened in 1992. They have hosted school sport, local competitions, representative games and countless hours of training. Now we are laying the floor for the next generation.”
“With the new courts expected to last up to 50 years, children who first play on them may one day return to watch their own children compete on the same boards.”
The new 21-millimetre hardwood timber surface is being installed after substantial work to strengthen and improve the subfloor. Line markings and a polished finish will be added once the boards are in place.
Cr Tan thanked clubs, schools, players and families for their patience while the work continued.
“We appreciate the way our sporting community has adapted,” Cr Tan said. “Every new board laid takes us closer to welcoming everyone back onto courts built to carry Dandenong sport well into the future.”
Dandenong Stadium remains open at reduced capacity during construction, with some activities temporarily relocated to Springers Leisure Centre. The upgrade is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
Fast facts:
- 65 kilometres of Tasmanian Oak will be installed, enough to travel from Dandenong
- Stadium to the MCG, return and continue for another five kilometres
- More than 17,000 people visit the stadium each week
- Seven of the stadium’s 15 courts are being renewed
- Around 4700 square metres of sports flooring is being replaced
- Up to 50 years expected life of the new floor
