In a slam dunk for regional sport, Taree now boasts a state-of-the-art basketball facility with the expansion of the Iron Arena now complete.
The Albanese and Minns Governments have provided $12,979,285 to the Taree Basketball Association from the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund under the jointly funded Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.
This significant investment has transformed the former Saxby Stadium into the larger Iron Arena, featuring two new multi-purpose courts suitable for basketball, futsal and other indoor sports.
The spectator experience will be enhanced through upgrades to the seating arrangements, creating a show court capable of hosting major sporting and entertainment events.
This revitalised venue is not only a hub for athletic excellence but also a vital space for promoting health, wellbeing and community connection.
Taree Basketball Association has ambitious plans to host an international team visiting for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.
The Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund supports bushfire impacted regions by funding projects that strengthen community resilience and reduce the impact of future natural disasters.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain:
"The expanded Iron Arena shows how disaster recovery funding can deliver lasting community assets that help regions like Manning rebuild stronger, healthier and more connected.
"By transforming the stadium into a modern multi-sport venue, we are supporting Taree's recovery with facilities that bring people together and create new opportunities for local sport and events.
"Investments like this ensure that recovery is not just about replacing what was lost but also giving communities the chance to grow, thrive and look to the future with confidence."
Quotes attributable to Federal Senator for NSW Deborah O'Neill:
"Whether you're learning to shoot your first hoop, playing at the Olympic level, or coming along to watch a great game, the Iron Arena is a place the whole community can enjoy."
"This arena shows what can be delivered for regional communities when all levels of government work together."
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty:
"This is an incredible achievement for Taree and the wider Manning region, a project that shows just how powerful sport can be in bringing people together and building stronger communities.
"The Iron Arena is now a world-class facility that will inspire the next generation of athletes, from kids picking up a basketball for the first time to elite players training for international competition.
"Sport continues to play a powerful role in Taree's recovery from multiple natural disasters, including this year's devastating floods.
"As the community rebuilds, sport is helping to restore confidence, create opportunities and bring people together in shared purpose and pride."
Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for North Coast Janelle Saffin:
"We are building back better, where we can, to ensure our vital community facilities are more resilient to future disasters."
"We are investing in our communities too by ensuring they have the recreational facilities they need to stay connected, active and thrive."
Quotes attributable to Iron Arena project advocate Steve Atkins:
"The opening of Iron Arena marks a significant step toward achieving our core goals of enhancing health and wellness within our community.
"By encouraging greater participation in sports, we aim to uplift community spirit and strengthen our shared ambition to improve local circumstances.
"In the long term, I am confident this facility will boost the local economy through sports tourism and event-driven growth."
