All weather turf makes school leader in field

Hockey-loving Douglas Park School has officially opened its new all-weather turf.

The turf, costing about $160,000, has been in the making for about 15 months, and was officially opened at the annual school picnic on February 15.

Principal Dick Brown said a huge number of families turned out to the opening, including years seven students who had moved on.

"It was good to see a few of our kids who are now year sevens at other places come back last Friday and enjoy the opening," he said.

"They were particularly excited about it because they've been waiting for it."

Mr Brown said the idea behind the turf was to have a good playing surface for practise. The children will also be able to use it when the grass is wet in winter.

He said a major driver for the turf was the school's "strong position" in hockey.

Friends of Douglas Park School donated $50,000 and Eastern and Central Community Trust donated $25,000. The remainder was made up by the Board of Trustees.