Work is set to commence on the Orange Regional Sporting Precinct athletics zone, delivering a modern, competition-grade facility for athletes and spectators across the region.
The Albanese and Minns Governments are delivering one of the largest sporting infrastructure projects in Central West New South Wales, backed by $15 million from the Australian Government's Growing Regions Program and $59.5 million from the NSW Government.
Preparation for the athletics grandstand, change rooms and photo finish room will be undertaken by Zauner construction.
The certified athletics track and field facility will be constructed by Polytan Asia Pacific, ensuring the venue meets competition standards and can support community, school and elite level events.
The athletics zone includes 500 lux lighting with initial activities including earth works, drainage, water and sewer pipes, excavation and slab pouring.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain MP:
"We're investing in modern facilities so local families and athletes can train, compete and stay connected to their community, without needing to travel to the big cities.
"This fully synthetic athletics track will give the Central West a top-quality venue that supports local athletes and creates opportunities to host major events in Orange."
Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for Agriculture and Regional, Tara Moriarty MP:
"This is about putting the foundations in place for a high-quality athletics hub that will support local athletes and attract major events to the Central West.
"It's great to see the project progressing, building infrastructure that will create opportunities for the Orange community and strengthen regional sport into the future."
Quotes attributable to Mayor of Orange, Tony Mileto:
"Work starting on the athletics zone is another important step to delivering the vision for the precinct.
"We have fired the starter's pistol on this element of the project and I can't wait to see athletes jumping out of the blocks at what will be the best athletics facility in the region."
Quotes attributable to Senator for NSW, Deborah O'Neill:
"I am proud to be a part of the Albanese Labor Government that continues to deliver for regional New South Wales.
"We know that high-quality community infrastructure builds stronger, healthier regions."
Quotes attributable to Deputy Mayor of Orange and Chair of the Recreation and Culture Policy Committee, Tammy Greenhalgh:
"The athletics facility will be a major point of difference for the precinct.
"There is a lot to love about the entire precinct but a high-quality athletics track gives our athletes the chance to train locally on a surface that in past required a long road trip.
"Work starting means that road trip will be a memory next year."
