Upgrades planned for popular Athletics Precinct in East Albury

The Advisory Committee for the Les O’Brien Athletics Precinct in East Albury have identified a number of upgrades to improve usability and accessibility, attract events and increase participation, and improve the overall look and operation of the facility.

The Les O’Brien Athletics Precinct is a popular location for a variety of sporting user groups, enjoyed by over 25,000 people each year including hosting more than 50 school and regional athletics carnivals.

A highlight in the precinct’s history was a visit from the Ukranian team for training prior to the Sydney 2000 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Following the major reconstruction of the athletics track in 2015, the precinct now has an international Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) Class II certification. This is the highest classification that can be obtained for a single facility.

Class I IAAF facilities require an accompanying training facility and are generally located in metropolitan areas, making this a huge achievement for our region.

To ensure high quality facilities are provided into the future, AlburyCity have developed a draft Les O’Brien Athletics Precinct Master Plan in close conusltation with the Committee, with the draft plan now open for community feedback.

The proposed upgrades include:

• Additional shade structures along the western bank

• New accessible amenities building

• Bench seating and tables in various locations

• Connecting pathways

• Additional storage

• Perimeter fence around the syntenic track surface

• Lighting

• Sealed entrance road

• Gardens beds and additional landscaping

Albury City Mayor Kylie King encouraged the community to have their say on how Council can prioritise improvements to the region’s premier athletics facility, which will assist in seeking funding in the coming years.

“The precinct is such a popular destination for all ages, and whether you’re a keen athlete, enjoy keeping fit, training for the next Olympics or Paralympics, the proposed improvements will certainly contribute to the overall experience of visiting the venue,” Mayor King said.

The draft Les O’Brien Athletics Precinct Master Plan can be viewed on the Albury City website