With all major oval renovation works completed at Drouin Recreation Reserve, the new oval is on target to host the Western Derby rivalry match between Drouin and Warragul at the end of the Gippsland League home and away season.
Training has resumed on the oval. The works included a full reconstruction of the oval's drainage system, irrigation and natural turf profile.
It is planned the oval will celebrate its first game day on August 23 for the Drouin versus Warragul match.
Baw Baw Shire community infrastructure director Ben Wood said given the turf had only had since February to establish, usage of the oval will need to be monitored and managed to minimise the risk of damage to the newly laid turf.
He said following the Western Derby, council will work closely with user groups through the monitoring, management and increasing usage of the oval, subject to the turf's condition in the lead up to 2026 football season.