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Pohlen Park

This park is located between Western and Smith Streets. 

The site has a large sports field area, seating, playground, an indoor recreation facility (Headon Stadium) and carpark located at the end of Western Street.

History

The area was named Pohlen Park as a tribute to Mr Joseph Pohlen, a pioneer and benefactor of the town. The Pohlen Park Society transformed a swampy wasteland into a well kept sports area by levelling the humps and hollows and sowing a special grass seed mixture.

The Headon Sports Stadium built in 1974 was made possible by the generosity of Mrs E.M. Headon who donated $17,500. Contributions were also made by the public and a $10,000 grant from the Department of Internal Affairs.

In 1985 the Pohlen Park Society handed the park back to the former Matamata Borough Council.

Headon Sports Stadium

This facility is currently used by:

  • Basketball
  • Gymnastic
  • Indoor bowls
  • Badminton
  • Other community groups from time to time

 In addition, the stadium contains changing rooms for sports field users.

Sports fields

During summer the sports field area is used by the cricket club, playing on three artificial cricket wickets, and the croquet club which has six courts and a clubhouse. In the winter, the sports field is used by the football (soccer) club. Sports field lighting is installed for night practice of football, including use by football clubs located at other sites in Matamata.