Nationals' MPs, the Hon Dr David Gillespie and Tanya Thompson, have taken part in a sod-turning ceremony to mark the beginning of construction of Taree's long-planned Iron Arena project.
In 2020 Dr Gillespie, the Federal Member for Lyne, and the late Stephen Bromhead, the former State Member for Myall Lakes, announced funding under the Bushfire local Economic Recovery Fund to deliver the new project replacing the Taree Indoor Sports Stadium, formerly known as Saxby's Stadium
"Initially we announced $8.251 million towards the project, however due to several delays with the planning process and access to building materials and resources the project cost has escalated," Dr Gillespie said.
"I'm delighted the funding has increased to $12.9 million to ensure the project can now proceed," Dr Gillespie said.
Dr Gillespie said when complete, the Iron Arena would provide a transformative change for the region's economy attracting a range of high-profile events at the local, regional, state, and national level.
"Iron Arena will cater for a range of activities, meeting latent demand especially in basketball and futsal, as well as a range of new sports such as volleyball and indoor hockey, while also hosting trade shows and concerts.
"This new regional facility will not only deliver significant sporting and social benefits, but also broader economic benefits to the Manning Valley."
Mr Thompson said she's so excited to see the project moving ahead because it's something Stephen Bromhead was so passionate about.
"The Iron Arena will be a huge asset for our region, not only supporting local sporting opportunities but also attracting major events and boosting our local economy," said Mrs Thompson.
"I can't wait to see this facility come together, to shoot some hoops, and to see our sporting athletes enjoy this facility for years to come."
Completion of the project is expected in 2025.
