The future of Bathurst Indoor Sports Stadium has been secured with over $1.1 million in funding announced by state member for Bathurst Paul Toole.
The NSW Government’s Level the Playing Field program has allocated $1,151,773 to complete the upgrade of the stadium roof. Works will also include upgrading the current ageing and uneven playing surface to meet contemporary standards and improve user experience.
For far too long we have seen the Bathurst Indoor Sports Stadium neglected and not maintained at the level it should have been. The roof has been leaking, stopping games and putting players at risk.
Once complete, the upgrades will broaden the activities and programs provided at the stadium. If budget allows, supporting amenities will be upgraded as well.
Member for Bathurst said it has been a long road to get this funding.
“The indoor stadium is home to not only basketball but futsal, volleyball, badminton and netball who will all benefit from this upgrade,” Mr Toole said.
“This is a 34-year-old stadium that has been neglected, but through passionate players and supporters of the stadium we have been able to secure its future.
“The Bathurst Indoor Sports Stadium is the city’s only major indoor sporting facility, so it is vital we support and upgrade this facility for our sport-loving community.
“I want to thank the passionate players and supporters of the stadium who have consistently fought for the future of this facility.”
Bathurst Indoor Sports Stadium Manager Andrew James said the stadium is elated by the funding news.
“The leaking roof has caused countless heartaches for us and our players, previous patch ups and funding haven’t been sufficient, but this boost will give us the facility our players deserve and the ability to host major tournaments once again.
“We have long waitlists of kids that want to play, be active and socialise with their friends. With these upgrades we may be able to provide extended programs and playing times to accommodate for this.”
This latest round of funding builds on previous funding totally $1.7 million from the NSW Government towards growing the sport of basketball here in Bathurst.
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