NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell and the Minister for Sport and Recreation Graham Annesley recently inspected progress on the $65-million Sydney Showground Stadium upgrade at Sydney Olympic Park.
NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell and Graham Annesley, Minister for Sport and Recreation visited the $65-million Sydney Showground Stadium site
Beginning in April this year construction of the new multi-purpose Stadium is well on track for completion in March 2012, ready to host Australia’s largest event – the Sydney Royal Easter Show.
The venue is set to offer an increased seating capacity from13,000 to 25,000, complete with new covered grandstands, corporate facilities and the largest video screen in the Southern Hemisphere.
Premier O’Farrell said the Stadium will be a fantastic multi-purpose facility for the people of Western Sydney – from the Sydney Royal Easter Show to AFL matches, other sporting events, concerts and festivals.
“The NSW Government is proud to be funding this upgraded facility, in the heart of Western Sydney and – for a change – set to be delivered on time and on budget,” said Premier O’Farrell.
“My Government is committed to attracting more major events to Western Sydney and this new ground will be a key drawcard to help make that a reality.”
Peter King, Royal Agricultural Society of NSW (RAS) Chief Executive said the upgrade is generating significant economic activity in Western Sydney and once complete will enable the RAS to attract and retain major events well into the future.
“Enhancing the Stadium facilities will create an additional $446 million of economic and social value for NSW and an estimated 3,400 full time Western Sydney jobs,” said King.
“The upgrade of this government-owned, RAS-operated asset is a long term investment for the community. A true multi-purpose venue, Sydney Showground is realising its objective of becoming the Sydney’s event hub as we play host to Australia’s largest and highest profile events.”
The Stadium upgrade supports the Master Plan for Sydney Olympic Park to continue to develop and enhance its reputation as a premier commercial, residential, sporting and entertainment precinct.
The RAS is thrilled to be new home game match venue for the Greater Western Sydney Giants and looks forward to the team’s maiden home game in May 2012.
The stadium upgrade is being jointly funded by the NSW Government, AFL and the RAS.
The Royal Agricultural Society of NSW has managed the 30 hectare government-owned Sydney Showground site at Sydney Olympic Park since 1997, hosting over 400 exhibitions, conferences, concerts, festivals, meetings and events each year.
Sydney Olympic Park, home to over 5,000 events a year, was declared a suburb in 2008.
