As part of the $1.7 million turf replacement program, the entire arena surface will be removed and re-levelled in readiness for a packed program of sporting events over the next 12 months.
The existing turf, which amounts to about 3000 cubic metres of material, will then be recycled as a top soil product.
Ten portable pitches – each weighing approximately 34 tonnes – will also be installed in preparation for the Sheffield Shield's cricket season opener on October 31.
“The life span of any natural turf sports surface is not infinite and, while our artificial lighting system has significantly reduced the need for turf replacement, the MCG is a high-use venue,” Melbourne Cricket Club arenas operations manager Tony Gordon said.
“Strategic turf replacement is crucial to ensuring our playing surface is among the best in the world. Both cricket and AFL players will enjoy the benefits of this program.”
It is the field’s biggest transformation since it hosted the 2006 Commonwealth Games.
