Sports Technology

The Northern Territory Government is investing close to $1 million in infrastructure which will help the NT secure international cricket matches at TIO Stadium and upgrade facilities to improve spectator experiences.

The investment includes the construction of a $280,000 nursery to curate drop-in cricket pitches at TIO Stadium. The construction of the drop-in pitch nursery is another step towards international cricket matches returning to the NT for the first time in over a decade.

The nursery will eventually store three drop-in pitches. Two freshly prepared pitches will be dropped into the centre of TIO Stadium in July ahead of NT Cricket’s Cricket 365 program.

The nursery is a crucial piece of infrastructure built next to the playing surface to allow for the easier transition of pitches in and out of TIO Stadium.

Work is also underway to upgrade a number of amenities in and around TIO Stadium to make it a better venue for spectators.

The works include:

• $113,000 to upgrade pathway lighting which, once installed will make it easier for spectators to get around the stadium during matches.
• $91,166 to replace the stadium’s PA system
• $56,689 to paint and add change tables to the men’s toilet.
• $51,762 to install three new bollards and upgraded distribution board to provide a safer and more stable electrical system for vendors to access power at major events.

$400,000 is also being invested for the operational costs to support hosting events at TIO Stadium.

The NT Government is committed to investing in our sporting infrastructure and to encouraging more Territorians to live healthy and active lifestyles.

NT Minister for Sport Kate Worden noted “The Northern Territory Government continues to invest in our sporting infrastructure. Our investments ensure Territorians have access to elite-level sports facilities through investments like this.

“The upgrades to the pitch and facilities at TIO Stadium not only mean Territory cricketers can play on world-class pitches, but we can host national and international games in the future.

“Having drop in pitches at TIO Stadium means Territory cricket fans can watch the next generation of Australian stars at Darwin’s premier sporting facility.

NT Cricket Chief Executive Gavin Dovey added “The creation of the nursery and installation of two drop in pitches this year is another important step towards Darwin hosting international cricket.

“We know there is an opportunity to bring the Australian Men’s Team here in 2025 and 2026 and we know Cricket Australia wants to return to the Territory.

“By playing Top End T20 Series fixtures at TIO Stadium in August we will again show we’ve built the infrastructure and we’re ready.

“This year’s Top End T20 Series will include some of the biggest T20 Franchises and cricketing nations in the world and showcase the Territory as the only place in the country where you can play cricket 365 days a year.”

Related Articles

7th June 2023 - TIO Stadium to install drop in pitch for return of International cricket

30th April 2022 - NRL fixture to go ahead at Darwin’s TIO Stadium despite ‘dangerous’ fire alarm procedure

16th July 2014 - AFLNT pushes for redevelopment of Darwin’s TIO Stadium