University of Canberra's new $16 million sporting complex unveiled

The University of Canberra (UC) has unveiled a $16 million sporting complex, which is expected to provide a boost for the ACT's economy and national reputation.

The centre includes a new home for the Brumbies, teaching and research facilities, three gymnasiums, medical and rehabilitation areas, plunge pools, a sauna, oval and a purpose-built bocce court.

Opening the facility, ACT acting Chief Minister Andrew Barr said the new centre would help to place Canberra at the forefront of development and innovation in sport, stating "the University of Canberra Sporting Commons will be the leading sports and research facility in Australia and will help grow the social and economic benefits of sport in the territory.

"It's the culmination of a number of years of hard work across a number of different organisations.

"This is a bit of a glimpse into our city's economic future.

"This facility will see increased opportunity to bring more students to the city, and to continue to build on our enviable record of investment in sport and recreation and in higher education in Canberra."

Minister Barr said there was opportunity for other Canberra sporting teams to make use of the facilities.

UC Vice-Chancellor Stephen Parker said the completion of the Sporting Commons was a step towards becoming the nation's leading sports university, adding "this building will bring community and elite sport under one roof, while also adding significantly to facilities available for students and staff."

ACT Brumbies Chairman Sean Hammond said the team was delighted with its new headquarters.

Hammond concluded never before have the UC Brumbies had everything under one roof.

"We now have access to competition-quality pitch, state-of-the-art gymnasium, medical facilities and administration, all within one building."

The centre was co-funded by the ACT Government, UC, and ACT and Southern NSW Rugby Union.

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