The following residents of the ACT draw the attention of the Assembly to the ongoing and unresolved safety issues at the sporting fields in the Narrabundah area, specifically relating to field conditions and the deliberate use of inadequate lighting.
It has become apparent that the lighting is being operated at a reduced level, presumably as a cost-saving measure. This decision has created an unsafe playing environment and significantly increases the risk of serious injury to players, officials, and spectators. In a sport where balls can routinely travel in excess of 150 km/h, inadequate lighting is not a minor inconvenience — it is a serious hazard. This approach to saving money is ill-conceived and places participants directly in harm’s way. It is not a question of if someone will be injured under these conditions, but when. When that occurs, the decision to deliberately operate lighting below a safe standard will no doubt present a significant liability issue.
It must also be noted that players and clubs pay fees for the use of these facilities, including lighting. Despite this, they are not being provided the standard of service for which they are charged. Participants are effectively paying to use facilities that are unsafe and not fit for purpose. This situation is unacceptable and cannot be allowed to continue. Community sporting clubs, volunteers, families, and players should not be forced to choose between participation and personal safety. Continued inaction exposes the community to unnecessary risk and undermines confidence in the management and oversight of these public assets.
We call on you to address this matter immediately, before a constituent is seriously injured. We request that urgent action be taken to ensure lighting and field conditions meet appropriate safety standards, and that we be advised of what steps will be taken and within what timeframe.
Your petitioners, therefore, request the Assembly to call on the ACT Government to address this matter immediately, before a constituent is seriously injured. We request that urgent action be taken to ensure lighting and field conditions meet appropriate safety standards, and that we be advised of what steps will be taken and within what timeframe.