A significant transformation has been unveiled at the Hunter Sports Centre in Lake Macquarie, following a $52 million upgrade project that was initiated back in 2021. The revamped facility, inaugurated on Saturday, now stands as a premier athletics hub and home to Australia’s first Trampoline Centre of Excellence, positioning the region to host prestigious national and international sports events.
The collaborative effort to fund this ambitious project involved contributions from the local council, as well as federal and state governments. Representatives from these entities gathered at Lake Macquarie over the weekend to officially mark the completion of the extensive renovation. The revitalized center now features a state-of-the-art three-level sports and community complex, complete with function rooms, a health and fitness center, offices, and a cafe, catering to a wide array of community needs.
At the western end of the site lies the newly established Trampoline Centre of Excellence, equipped with ten trampolines, tumbling strips, a foam pit, warm-up areas, and grandstand seating for up to 400 spectators. Michelle Preston-Poole, acting general manager of the center, expressed pride in the upgraded facilities, emphasizing that it has elevated the center’s standing to become a top-tier destination in New South Wales for sports, health, and overall well-being.
Moreover, the expansion has paved the way for the University of Newcastle to establish its first permanent presence in Lake Macquarie, featuring the Trevor Height Athlete Testing Facility and a new sports and community center. University Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky highlighted the significance of this development, citing the opportunities it will provide for students, the local community, and athletes across the region. He underscored the synergy between sports and academia, noting the university’s longstanding commitment to supporting local athletes and fostering community engagement.
As part of the celebratory events surrounding the expansion’s completion, a community open day is scheduled for March 29. The day will offer visitors site tours, trampolining demonstrations, live entertainment, and complimentary gelato and coffee, providing a glimpse into the enhanced offerings of the Hunter Sports Centre.
The successful execution of this major upgrade underscores the region’s dedication to promoting sports excellence, community engagement, and fostering partnerships between educational institutions and local communities. The revitalized Hunter Sports Centre now stands as a beacon of sporting achievement and a testament to the collaborative spirit driving development in Lake Macquarie.
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