Bega Valley Shire Council is proud to announce the completion of major upgrade works at the Bermagui Indoor Sports Stadium, thanks to more than $1 million from the Australian and NSW Government's jointly funded Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund.
The upgraded facilities were made available for bookings from Tuesday 3 June and invitations will be sent to local sports clubs and stakeholders for the official opening at 1.00pm on Monday 4 August, with a public notification to be shared with the wider community.
The revamped stadium now features a range of accessibility and amenity improvements, making the space more inclusive, modern and fit for a wide variety of sporting and community uses.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain said the Australian Government is proud to support projects like this that not only help communities recover from disaster but create lasting benefits.
"This upgraded stadium shows how disaster recovery funding can be used to build back better by creating modern, inclusive facilities that serve the whole community for years to come.
"When we invest in accessible infrastructure through programs like the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund, we're ensuring that no one is left behind as communities rebuild and reconnect after disaster.
Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said it's great that the doors of the Bermagui Sports Stadium will re-open to an inclusive facility that the entire community can use.
"It's important for our communities to have spaces like this one where people of all ages and all abilities can come together, stay active and enjoy sport," Ms Moriarty said.
"The NSW Government will continue to back projects like this where the whole community can come together and connect."
Mayor Russell Fitzpatrick said the project is a big step forward for inclusive recreational facilities in the Bega Valley Shire.
"This upgrade means our community now has a more accessible, comfortable and functional venue for sport, fitness and community events," Mayor Fitzpatrick said.
"The improvements will support everything from junior basketball to seniors' fitness classes and inclusive sports like wheelchair basketball.
"It's always been a space that brings people together and now it's better than ever."
Key additions include a new disabled-compliant platform lift at the entrance, accessible toilets and changerooms and the resealing of the stadium floor.
The foyer and front façade have also been upgraded with new tiling, rendered brickwork and improved footpaths.
Mayor Fitzpatrick said the upgrades were guided by community input and strong collaboration.
"We worked closely with the Bermagui Indoor Stadium Committee to ensure this upgrade met the needs of the community," he said.
"From new cabinetry and lockers to improved amenities and kitchen facilities, these are practical enhancements that will make a big difference for local users.
"Sporting and community groups will benefit from the revitalised space, including basketball, netball, badminton, pickleball, karate and fitness classes.
"We are grateful for the efforts of all involved in delivering this project, from community volunteers to our funding partners in the Australian and NSW Governments."
This Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund project is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.
For more information on the project, visit Council's website.
Bookings requests can be made through Council's sportsgrounds bookings form.
