BHP Billiton to sponsor Perth Stadium Precinct

While the new Perth Stadium will not have a naming rigth sponsor, BHP Billiton has committed $5 million towards developing a boardwalk and amphitheatre in the Perth Stadium Sports Precinct - which will be known as the BHP Billiton Boardwalk and Amphitheatre.

Western Australian Premier Colin Barnett and Sport and Recreation Minister Mia Davies made the announcement at the Stadium site on Wednesday (9th September), together with the contracting parties, BHP Billiton and Westadium.

Explaining the partnership, Premier Barnett stated "the boardwalk, which will be more than 200 metres long, will link the amphitheatre in the south of the sports precinct to the community oval in the north.

"It will feature a series of interpretive story boards recognising the role and importance of indigenous culture on the stadium site and within Western Australia.

“The amphitheatre will provide tiered seating for about 1,000 people and host a range of events—including outdoor movies, children's plays and concerts—with a spectacular view of the CBD as the backdrop.”

The Premier congratulated BHP Billiton on its long-standing commitment to indigenous recognition, adding "the Stadium site, located on Noongar Country, is of significant indigenous importance. The design of the recreational precinct surrounding the Stadium was inspired by Dreamtime stories and its connection with the Swan River."

The involvement of BHP Billiton at Perth Stadium was facilitated by the Westadium consortium, which is responsible for the design, build, finance and maintenance elements of the stadium and sports precinct.

Western Australian Sport and Recreation Minister Mia Davies said the Perth Stadium project was leading the transformation of the Burswood Peninsula, adding “this development will not only provide the community with a world-class stadium but also an activated community space, accessible 365 days a year.”

The landscaped sports precinct will provide a range of facilities for year round community use, including children’s playgrounds, picnic and barbecue areas, an oval, integrated artwork plus a range of food and beverage options.

BHP has contributed over $300 million over the past five years to initiatives in the Western Australian community including the BHP Billiton Water Park at Elizabeth Quay.

Construction of the Perth Stadium and Sports Precinct is on schedule to open in time for the start of the 2018 AFL season.

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