New $17.2 sports facility officially open

The Northern Inland Centre of Sporting Excellence, which was officially opened today, is a win for sport and the local economy according to Tamworth Region Mayor Col Murray. Cr Murray said the $17.2 million facility will take our region’s ability to host major sporting events to the next level.

“It gives our residents access to top quality sports venues,” he said. “But this is about much more than exceptional sports facilities - it is also about have the quality of facilities which will become an economic driver for our region.

“I have no doubt the Centre of Sporting Excellence will become the premier sports precinct of Northern Inland NSW, capable of hosting local, State and National events.’’

Up to 2000 people took the opportunity today to see the first stage of the Northern Inland Centre of Sporting Excellence which comprises:  • An outdoor velodrome and criterium track;  • An outdoor equestrian arena, warm-up arena, carpark and amenities building at the Australian Equine and Livestock Events Centre (AELEC);  • A synthetic athletics facility;  • Extension of Tamworth Sports Dome extension; and  • Road upgrades and car parking. 

Council’s contribution to the project is $4.45 million ($2 million financial and $2.45 million in-kind) along with $8.5 million from the Australian Government and $4.25 million from the State Government. Federal Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, said the extension of Tamworth Sports Dome to include a new indoor court and the construction of a synthetic athletics track was a big win for sports participation in the region.

“This place has everything, from a new velodrome and criterium cycling circuit to an outdoor equestrian area, so anyone who’s interested in getting involved or watching sports will have something to enjoy,” Mr Joyce said.

“Around 100,000 locals are expected to use the facility each year, as well as another 50,000 visitors from out of town.

Cr Murray said if the NSW Government and Australian Government did not support and share Council’s vision for the Centre of Excellence there have been no funds to make it happen.

“It is such a great outcome for our community to have the government support to allow us to deliver a first-class sports and entertainment precinct capable of attracting exciting new events to our Region,” he said.

Cr Murray also praised all Council staff who worked as part of the project. 

“I would like to particularly mention the efforts of project manager Mark Gardiner who has headed up the team,” he said. “Apart from the skill and expertise during constriction works, staff undertook extensive research of similar facilities around Australia and the world to ensure what our community has is equal to international best standards.

“Councillors and I are proud our staff have shown, yet again, that Tamworth Regional Council has the capability to complete large scale multi-million dollar infrastructure.”

The velodrome and criterium tracks will now be open to the public for use. The athletics centre will be open to the public from 6am until 9pm daily. The exception is when these facilities are booked for a specific event.