The State Government provided a $2.5 million grant to redevelop the grandstand at Goodwood Oval which includes:

• A new two-storey grandstand to replace the existing grandstand;
• Four new change rooms and amenities to cater for female and junior participation;
• Two umpire change rooms;
• A new canteen;
• Public toilets and a seated area on the northern side;
• Fitness, administration and storage areas; and
• A first floor function area with lift.

Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing Corey Wingard joined officials in opening the new facilities on Sunday, 18 October – a special occasion for him given his history with the oval.

“I played at Goodwood Oval when I was in my early 20s so it’s particularly exciting to see the transformation that has occurred here which will provide more opportunities for the next generation to be active,” the Minister said.

“These venue upgrades will help create an environment that is inclusive for all, particularly females, juniors and people with a disability, which aligns with our Game On strategy to get more South Australians moving.”

When speaking about the new facilities, City of Unley Mayor Michael Hewitson AM said all stakeholders were consulted about what would benefit the clubs and community, and agreed on a design which would deliver significant objectives of the redevelopment.

“Goodwood Oval is a key regional sporting hub in the City of Unley and is also greatly valued as open space by the wider community,” Mayor Hewitson said.

“Since the Goodwood Oval Improvement Plan was developed, Council has been investigating options to provide more family-friendly facilities to encourage greater female and junior participation in local cricket and football, as well as to benefit our wider community.”

The upgrades were designed and built by Schiavello in accordance with the local level facility guidelines for Australian rules football and cricket.

The new facilities will service the Goodwood Saints Football Club which has over 600 members, Goodwood Cricket Club which has over 250 members, Forestville Hockey Club and Tennis SA Millswood Complex, comprising the Goodwood Saints Tennis Club.

The City of Unley, South Australian National Football League (SANFL), South Australian Cricket Association (SACA), Goodwood Saints Football Club, and Goodwood Cricket Club provided $1.1 million in funding to complete the project build which commenced in January 2020.