Walcha's young people have a new revamped home on the bank of the Apsley River, with the redevelopment of the town's skate park now open for use.
The Walcha Skate Park Renewal Project is jointly funded by $821,398 from the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund under the Australian and New South Wales governments' Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) and $250,000 from the Australian Government's Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.
The small skate park has been redeveloped to a much larger facility, offering more space with different skill options.
New features include an enclosed bowl, full size half court, spectator terrace, bowl seating/shelter, scooter run which includes a 40m linear track with various pump bumps, three ramps, transitions, and street style features including a raised pit.
The renewed space complements surrounding sports infrastructure, creating a vibrant youth precinct that brings new life and energy to the Walcha community.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, the Hon Kristy McBain MP:
"Through the DRFA and a further federal investment through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, the Australian and NSW governments have partnered to help council triple the size of the existing skate park and bring new facilities for young people to be active and social.
"This is another example of our governments supporting local recovery by helping local governments like Walcha Council undertake projects that help their communities thrive after disaster.
"We're getting closer to the school holidays, so it's the perfect time not only for young people to head down to the skate park with their friends and test their skills on the new installations, but also for families to enjoy the new facilities right on the Apsley River."
Quotes attributable to State Minister for Regional NSW, the Hon Tara Moriarty MLC:
"Walcha's youth now have a state-of-the-art space to call their own, with the revamped skate park and surrounding facilities creating a real hub of activity on the stunning Apsley River.
"This project is about giving our young people modern, safe spaces to be active, social and connected.
"Combining the features of a skatepark and various ball sports, the result is a facility that will support youth recreation, community connection and active lifestyles.
"This renewal is a great example of what can be achieved through collaboration between all levels of government and I congratulate Walcha Council on its vision for creating a central space that puts young people at the centre of the community."
Quotes attributable to Mayor of Walcha Eric Noakes:
"The much-anticipated completion of the Walcha Skate Park draws to a close the revitalisation of an important sporting and social precinct in Walcha.
"While a skate park is primarily thought of as a young person's domain it is also a place for families to gather and socialise while offering a great outdoor recreational space for all to enjoy.
"Walcha Council and the community greatly appreciate the financial contribution of both the Australian and NSW governments in bringing this project to fruition."
