City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder still battling turf issues at Ray Finlayson Sporting Complex

The City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder is aiming to have turf problems at Ray Finlayson Sporting Complex fixed by the start of next year’s Goldfields Soccer Association season.

The Eastern Goldfields Cricket Association has been using the north oval since the 2025-26 season started last month but did not make use of the south oval until last Saturday.

Meanwhile, large patches of grassless ground remain clearly visible on the soccer pitches in front of the main grandstand.

City chief executive Andrew Brien told the Kalgoorlie Miner the city had undertaken a significant amount of remedial work to address long-term soil and turf issues at the complex during the last 12 months, including aeration, topdressing, salt leaching treatments and drainage improvements.

Mr Brien said the north oval was in good condition and being actively used for cricket, while the south oval had undergone remediation and was fit for play.

However, he said the central field remained a challenge because of soil compaction and salt accumulation, which prevented consistent turf growth.

Mr Brien said the city had been using two types of specialised machinery to help with the process, including a Vibra-Sandmaster.

The Kalgoorlie Miner reported in September last year the city had bought the Vibra-Sandmaster in September 2023 for $293,605.

Mr Brien this week said this equipment had been an important part of improving soil aeration and drainage in certain areas, however the site’s unique underlying soil profile was a complex issue, and the city was working closely with turf specialists to identify the most effective long-term solution.

He said during the next six months the city would continue applying micronised gypsum and organic materials to improve soil structure and continue investigating the installation of drainage systems to help flush salts from the soil.

“The city’s remediation and soil treatment program will continue through 2025,” he said.

“Our aim is for the soccer pitches to be ready for the 2026 Goldfields Soccer Association season, subject to ongoing soil improvement and turf establishment.”