NSW Government Backs Sydney Showground upgrade

The NSW Government has committed $45 million to upgrade the Sydney Showground in order to attract and retain major sporting and leisure events.

Peter King, Chief Executive of the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW (RAS) today welcomed the investment, backed with funding contributions from the Australian Football League and the RAS, that will allow Sydney's second AFL team to play its home games at the Sydney Olympic Park venue.

"The upgrade will enable Sydney Showground to attract and retain major events well into the future and generate greater returns for the RAS to invest into programs which support our core charter: agriculture; education; competitions; youth; and regional NSW."

The seating capacity of the Showground's main arena will increase from 13,000 to 25,000 including an upgrade of the associated amenities including
hospitality, security, turf and media facilities.

"Sydney Olympic Park already has an enviable reputation as the best events precinct in Australia and the Sydney Showground upgrade will complement this," continued King, adding "the new facilities will enhance visitor experience at the major national events we already host - Sydney Royal Easter Show, V8 Supercars and the Big Day Out - and create a top class, boutique, multi-purpose stadium in the heart of Sydney.

"We are thrilled to be the new home game match venue for the Greater Western Sydney AFL team and hope to attract other sports including cricket, soccer and baseball games along with concerts and festivals, which will create a diversified income stream for the RAS.

The RAS has managed the 30 hectare government-owned Sydney Showground site at Sydney Olympic Park since 1997, hosting over 400 exhibitions, conferences, meetings and events each year.

"We are best known for our marquee event, the Sydney Royal Easter Show.

Australia's single largest annual event, the Show attracts in excess of 900,000 visitors each year, and is envied across the world," added King.

"This investment will see greater utilisation of the Sydney Showground site and assist in attracting and delivering even more world class events.

"Extension of a government owned asset such as the Sydney Showground is a long term investment in the community and supports the Master Plan for Sydney Olympic Park to continue to develop this area and to enhance its reputation as a premier commercial, residential, sporting and entertainment precinct."

The Main Arena upgrade is expected to be completed in 2012.

Image courtesy of Sydney Olympic Park Business Association.

27th April 2010 - 900,000 VISITORS ATTEND 2010 SYDNEY ROYAL EASTER SHOW