The new $3.9-million Lismore Skatepark, part of the newly upgraded Lismore Regional Sports Hub, was officially opened today (after a few openings already) by State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin and Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg
The facility includes both "street" and "park" (bowl) sections, as well as a covered mini ramp, which is eagerly anticipated by the local skater community. The design also includes a rail paying tribute to the late Travis Watson, who was an avid skater, mentor and advocate for skating in Lismore and the wider community.
"This is going to be a game changer for our young people who will no longer have to travel to Goonellabah to have a skate," Mayor Krieg said.
"It is also built to such a high standard that we will be able to host national and international competition, adding to Lismore's already strong reputation of having the best sporting facilities in regional NSW.
"This continues to benefit our local businesses and jobs as those playing or coming to watch these sporting events spend money in our city, whether it's at our motels, restaurants, clothing stores or other retailers.
"With skating now an Olympic event, and many world-class skaters coming from our region, a new skate park will be another string in our bow and attract even more visitors.
"Being located in such a central location near the corner of Uralba and Dawson streets it will be accessible for all of the community and also ensure safety for the skaters and visitors."
Lismore MP Janelle Saffin said: "This facility is the enduring legacy of my friend the late Travis Watson, who envisioned a modern and user-friendly skatepark for Lismore and was instrumental in making it a reality.
"I also acknowledge and thank Sam James, who took over Travis's 36 Chambers skate shop in Molesworth Street and who has guided this landmark project," Ms Saffin said.
"I have backed in our new skatepark from the very beginning and congratulate the local skating community, Council and expert contractors CONVIC for collaborating on a first-class job.
"The design team worked so hard and were so enthusiastic. I encouraged them to engage with many and ensure it was inclusive, girl- friendly, and visible, therefore safe.
"It is in a prime location between the CBD and the Square right up against Oakes Oval and adds to Lismore's growing reputation as a regional sporting hub."
Ms Saffin said the project was fully funded under Round 2 of the NSW Government's Multi-Sport Community Facility Fund, aimed at keeping communities healthy, active and connected.
Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said that projects like these show the NSW Government's commitment to providing sporting infrastructure that best meets the needs of the whole community.
"This facility supports participation at all levels -- from those just looking to get out there and give the sport a go to those competing at a professional level," he said.
The design has been developed by Australia's leading skatepark and youth space design and construction company, CONVIC, in consultation with Council and our community.
CONVIC ran several community workshops in September 2023 as part of the design development process, as well as extensive consultation with key local stakeholders in the skate and riding community through the design stage.
Additionally, CONVIC also consulted with professional skaters, coaches and event organisers including Olympic skateboarding judge Renton Millar to ensure the skatepark can attract and host competitions and training events, as well as meeting the needs of the local community.
Throughout construction, Council worked with competition operators, local skate community and sporting bodies to develop a calendar of events.
Picture Left to Right: David Buckley (Convic), Mayor Steve Krieg, Clr Battista, Sam James (36 Chambers), John McPherson (Convic Project Manager), Corey Mills (local inline skater) and the tiny person in the back is Indy Davis (local skater)
