Batemans Bay’s passion for sport and culture will help underpin the region’s economic future thanks to a new regional aquatic, arts and leisure precinct to be built at Mackay Park.
The first sod was turned on the complex today, which will include a 25-metre indoor pool, a cultural centre and auditorium with 350-seat capacity.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the sky was the limit now for Batemans Bay.
“Quality sports and cultural facilities are so important for our regional towns because sporting clubs get a boost, major events can be held, the community has a place to gather and jobs are created,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.
“The Australian Government’s $100 billion, 10-year infrastructure pipeline is supporting local communities at a time it’s needed most.”
Member for Bega Andrew Constance said the new facility would appeal to a wide variety of users.
“The new indoor pool will be a freeform leisure pool that will be great for aqua-aerobic participants and other groups who need to train all year round,” Mr Constance said.
“Importantly this facility will also cater for those in our region with disabilities and offer warm water therapy options for those rehabilitating from injury or who are post-operative.
“It will also have features for our little ones, with a learn-to-swim area and a water play splash pad with waterslides. There will also be a gymnasium and a group fitness area.
“The cultural possibilities the new facility will present are also dramatically improved with the coming gallery and exhibition space, dance studio, music room, wet and dry workshop spaces and other multi-purpose spaces that will generate great creativity and entertainment,” said Mr Constance.
Senator for New South Wales Hollie Hughes said the Australian Government’s $25 million investment in the project would provide an important return for the local economy as it recovers from the effects of COVID-19.
“Attracting professional and amateur sporting events, the new precinct will be an economic game changer for Batemans Bay, with this upgrade making it the pride of the region,” Senator Hughes said.
“The arts will thrive under the new facility with its large open spaces for exhibitions and performances.”
Eurobodalla Shire Mayor Liz Innes said it was exciting now that the first sod was turned.
“Not only will we soon have a wonderful new facility open all year, but its construction will provide a big boost to our local economy at a time when we need it most,” Cr Innes said.
“Following the impacts of the bushfires, projects like this give us hope – they show us we have confidence to invest in our future and the future of our children.”
The regional aquatic, arts and leisure precinct is scheduled for completion by February 2022.
Australian Government is committing $25 million to the project under the $272.2 million Regional Growth Fund. This initiative funds transformational projects across sectors such as transport and communications, tourism, manufacturing and primary industries.
NSW Government is committing a further $26 million and the Eurobodalla Shire Council $18 million to fund the project.
