Polytan is proud to have delivered Torquay’s new state-of-the-art hockey pitch at Banyul-Warri Fields, marking a major milestone for hockey on Victoria’s Surf Coast.
Officially opened with the support of the Allan Labor Government, Surf Coast Shire and hockey stakeholders, the facility features Polytan’s elite Poligras Platinum World Cup synthetic hockey surface, made from 20% bio-based materials, delivering outstanding ball roll, player comfort, durability and all-weather performance.
This is the first dry, non-sand dressed hockey pitch in Victoria, and the first in Australia certified to the new FIH Innovation Category, delivering elite wet-field performance without the need for water.
“This is an exciting day for hockey lovers and sports fans right across the Surf Coast and the greater Geelong region. These state-of-the-art facilities – delivered months ahead of schedule – will give local players, families and volunteers a place they can truly be proud of. I can’t wait to see the Torquay Hockey community make this pitch their own.
We are so proud to see the results of our significant investment into sports infrastructure across Victoria that is helping our regional cities and towns become even better places to live, work, stay and play” – Gayle Tierney MP, Labor Member for Western Victoria.
Funded through the Victorian Government’s $550 million Regional Sports Infrastructure Program, the project delivers a premium new home for the Torquay Hockey Club, complete with 500 lux LED lighting, electronic scoreboard, sheltered spectator seating and new car parking.
“The hockey pitch is a welcome addition to the busy Banyul-Warri Fields precinct, which continues to grow as an important place for community connections and wellbeing,” – Cr Libby Stapleton, Surf Coast Shire Mayor.
Adding a powerful cultural element to the project, local Wadawurrung artist Billy-Jay (BJ) O’Toole created a bespoke artwork that has been stitched directly into the playing surface. The design symbolises connection, strength and inclusivity, celebrating the spirit of the Torquay hockey community.
The facility will also support Hockey Geelong’s summer competition program from early 2026 while Stead Park in Corio undergoes redevelopment.
“Torquay Hockey Club sincerely thanks the Victorian State Government for funding the new Banyul-Warri Fields hockey facility, and the Surf Coast Shire for delivering this exceptional community asset. We also thank Hockey Australia, Hockey Victoria and Hockey Geelong for their ongoing support in helping hockey thrive on the Surf Coast.”
“With the Shire’s long-term support, we’ve grown from one junior team in 2010 to a strong club across women’s, men’s, and junior competitions. Our world class new home is a true game changer for our members and the broader community” – Andrew Crowley, Torquay Tornadoes Hockey Club Vice President.
Delivered by Polytan in partnership with Surf Coast Shire and Sport and Recreation Victoria, the project generated strong regional economic benefits, employing 102 people and engaging 54 local businesses during construction.
“This project reflects exactly what Polytan stands for – world-class sports infrastructure that supports elite performance, community participation and long-term durability.
The Poligras Platinum World Cup surface is one of the most innovative hockey surfaces in the world and will be used at the 2026 Hockey World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands. We’re proud to deliver that same global standard of performance to the Torquay community,” – Anthony Kelly, General Manager, Polytan.
The Banyul-Warri Fields project is one of 16 major regional sports infrastructure developments being delivered through the Victorian Government’s Regional Sports Infrastructure Program.
With this project, Polytan continues to reinforce its position as Australia and New Zealand’s leading sports field and athletics track construction partner, delivering certified, high-performance playing surfaces nationwide.