PCYC NSW opens 65th facility in Grafton

PCYC NSW has opened its 65th facility and its largest club outside metropolitan Sydney.

Opened last month, the $6.5 million facility PCYC Grafton includes a high performance gym, classrooms to facilitate the Safer Drivers Course and Traffic Offenders Intervention Program for Transport for NSW, a youth hang-out zone, upgraded basketball courts and a members gym.

Following 10 months of building work, PCYC Grafton opened on the site of the former Grafton Sports Centre on 24th August 2020.

Advising that the new club will be a benchmark sport and recreation hub for youth and the community, PCYC NSW Chief Executive, Dominic Teakle stated “together with the NSW Police Force, we are very pleased to be able to bring much needed programs and activities to young people and families in the region.

“As a charity empowering young people, PCYC NSW, in partnership with the Clarence Valley Council, has invested in local young people and the community. We are here to work together and help them develop the skills they need to reach their full potential.

“We have worked closely with the people of Grafton to ensure the new facility meets the needs of the community. This will be our 65th club in the State and is the largest outside the Sydney metropolitan area. The Clarence Valley is a vibrant and engaged community and we know this club will be a great asset to Grafton and we hope it will be well used by everyone.”

PCYC Grafton has been running Fit For Life programs, part of the NSW Police Force RISEUP program, with officers from the Coffs-Clarence Police District. An average of 20 young people attend the morning fitness, nutrition and social engagement program each morning. There are plans to add more NSW Police Force RISEUP programs to join the current Fit For Life sessions.

The club will offer gymnastics classes for all ages, boxing, two gyms, basketball courts, futsal courts, school holiday programs and the 120 metre² youth hub will be a drop in centre for young people with hang-out zones and computer and homework facilities.

Safin Constructions managed work at the site using local Grafton contractors where possible. The 1,300 metre² building was designed by Sydney architects, Allen Jack + Cottier.

Images show the new PCYC Grafton with team members at top. Credit: PCYC NSW.