Construction has started on a new dragon boating facility to support training and competition activities for more than 600 ACT club members as well as interstate visitors participating in local and regional regattas.
The facility, at Grevillea Park on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, is the result of work by the ACT Government and Dragon Boat ACT to build a home for the sport in Canberra.
Local construction company Projex has been selected to construct the facility, which will include boat storage, training and timekeeping rooms, office space and meeting room, new amenities and changerooms, and a marshalling area.
The ACT Government invested $1.7 million towards the construction of the new purpose-built facility, with a further $200,000 provided by Dragon Boat ACT, who will run and maintain the facility.
Minister for Sport and Recreation Yvette Berry thanked Dragon Boat ACT for their ongoing advocacy for the sport and collaboration with the ACT Government on the project.
“Dragon boating is a really inclusive sport with a high number of women making up its membership. It’s also a sport that continues to grow in popularity in Canberra,” said Minister Berry.
“The design of the facility by Cox Architecture is sympathetic to the surroundings and the new home for dragon boating will be a welcome addition to Lake Burley Griffin’s shoreline.”
The facility is due to be complete at the end of 2023.
Quotes attributable to Dragon Boat ACT President Donald Jenkin:
“Dragon Boat ACT (DBACT) is delighted that the ACT Government has recognised our sport and worked together with us for a permanent home for dragon boating in the ACT. After decades of operating from temporary facilities, we look forward to seeing our new facility begin to take shape at Grevillea Park.
“Projex has significant experience in the ACT constructing commercial, government and educational facilities, among other projects. The building design by Cox is wonderful and we look forward to the completion of our new headquarters in the ACT.
“It will give DBACT indoor storage space for boats and other equipment, amenities for dragon boaters, regatta facilities for officials, room for erg paddling machines and secure storage spaces for local dragon boat clubs.
“Many thanks to Chief Minister Andrew Barr, Deputy Chief Minister Yvette Berry and all at Sport and Recreation for their ongoing help and support with this project.”
