Tamworth’s new $17.2 sports facility now fully operational

Having been officially opened on Saturday 12th October, Tamworth’s Northern Inland Centre of Sporting Excellence is now fully operational.

Described as a win for sport and the local economy by Tamworth Region Col Murray, the $17.2 million facility greatly enhances the region’s ability to host major sporting events.

Speaking at the opening, Mayor Murray stated “it gives our residents access to top quality sports venues, but this is about much more than exceptional sports facilities - it is also about have the quality of facilities which will become an economic driver for our region.

“I have no doubt the Centre of Sporting Excellence will become the premier sports precinct of Northern Inland NSW, capable of hosting local, state and national events.’’

The completed facility offers:

• An outdoor velodrome and criterium track; 
• An outdoor equestrian arena, warm-up arena, carpark and amenities building at the Australian Equine and Livestock Events Centre (AELEC); 
• A synthetic athletics facility; 
• Extension of Tamworth Sports Dome extension; and 
• Road upgrades and car parking. 

The Council’s contribution to the project wass $4.45 million ($2 million financial and $2.45 million in-kind) along with $8.5 million from the Australian Government and $4.25 million from the NSW Government.

Around 100,000 locals are expected to use the facility each year, as well as another 50,000 visitors from out of town.

Mayor Murray added “it is such a great outcome for our community to have the government support to allow us to deliver a first-class sports and entertainment precinct capable of attracting exciting new events to our Region.”

Acknowledging those who contributed to the project, he went on to say “I would like to particularly mention the efforts of project manager Mark Gardiner who has headed up the team.

“Apart from the skill and expertise during constriction works, staff undertook extensive research of similar facilities around Australia and the world to ensure what our community has is equal to international best standards.”

The velodrome and criterium tracks are now be open to the public for use with the athletics centre open to the public from 6am until 9pm daily.

The exception is when these facilities are booked for a specific event.

Image of Tamworth’s Northern Inland Centre of Sporting Excellence courtesy of JLE Electrical.