The Hunter Sports Centre in Lake Macquarie has completed its $52 million expansion project, marking a significant milestone for the region. The upgraded facility, known as Kaiyu Nungkiliko, now boasts state-of-the-art amenities, including the first Trampoline Centre of Excellence in Australia. This development positions Lake Macquarie as a premier destination for hosting national and international athletics and trampolining events.
The grand opening of the expanded Hunter Sports Centre was attended by representatives from various levels of government, highlighting the collaborative effort that made this project possible. Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz expressed his excitement about the enhanced sports center, emphasizing its potential to attract major sporting events and nurture local talent. The facility is expected to play a crucial role in supporting athletes, especially in trampolining, as Australia gears up for the 2032 Olympic Games.
Funding for the expansion was provided through a joint effort by Lake Macquarie City Council, the Australian Government, and the NSW Government. The project includes a multi-level sports and community center, featuring amenities such as function rooms, a health and fitness center, offices, and a cafe. Additionally, the newly established Trampoline Centre of Excellence offers world-class facilities for training in various aerial sports, expanding opportunities for athletes in the region.
The opening of the expanded Hunter Sports Centre also heralds the University of Newcastle’s inaugural presence in Lake Macquarie. The university will operate the Trevor Height Athlete Testing Facility within the sports center, providing students with practical experience and offering valuable services to the community. This collaboration underscores the importance of sports in education and community engagement.
To celebrate the completion of the project, a community open day is scheduled for March 29, featuring tours of the facility, trampolining demonstrations, live entertainment, and complimentary gelato and coffee. The dual name of the center, Kaiyu Nungkiliko, was chosen in consultation with local Aboriginal groups, reflecting the site’s significance and meaning in Awabakal language.
Local politicians, including Federal Member for Shortland Pat Conroy and Federal Member for Hunter Dan Repacholi, expressed their support for the upgraded sports facility, highlighting its economic and social benefits for the community. Minister for Sport Steve Kamper and other government officials commended the development, emphasizing the importance of investing in sports facilities to promote community well-being and talent development.
The completion of the Hunter Sports Centre expansion underscores the commitment to fostering a vibrant sports culture in Lake Macquarie and creating opportunities for athletes and residents alike. The world-class facilities and collaborative efforts behind this project set a new standard for sporting infrastructure in the region, promising a bright future for sports and community engagement.
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