The Northern Territory will continue to produce some of the nation's best hockey players with the help of new turf at Marrara Hockey Stadium in Darwin.
The upgrade brings the facilities up to the standard required to host national and international championship games in Darwin.
The Territory has a proud history in the sport of hockey, with home-grown Olympic medal winning athletes such as Nova Peris, Stephen Holt and Mark Hickman.
This new upgrade, which was an election promise in 2010, means Marrara Stadium can continue to foster Australian hockey players including current stars of the Australian men's team - Des Abbott and Joel Carroll.
The Gillard Government provided $500,000 for this project as part of a 2010 election commitment in partnership with the Northern Territory Government and the Northern Territory Hockey Association.
Senator Trish Crossin said the new upgrade would help the next generation of hockey players develop their skills on an international playing surface from day one.
It is also important for the 2,000 people or more who come to Marrara to play and watch sport every weekend.
Marrara Hockey Stadium Turf Replacement is one of 87 projects funded through the Community Infrastructure Grants Program, which is part of the $250 million regional community package committed by the Gillard Labor Government.
These projects are building and improving community centres, major sports grounds, heritage sites and other community infrastructure around Australia.
The project is an example of the Australian Government working together with state and local governments to boost social and economic development and support sustainable communities.