HALF-WAY MILESTONE FOR WESTERN STAND REDEVELOPMENT
Sport and Recreation Minister Kevin Greene and Minister for the Hunter Jodi McKay officially opened the second stage of the Western Grandstand redevelopment at Newcastle’s EnergyAustralia Stadium.
Mr Greene said completion of the $14.7 million project features new change rooms, seating and infrastructure, and marks the half-way point of the major project.
EnergyAustralia Stadium is now closer than ever to becoming the modern, world class sporting venue that Newcastle deserves,” Mr Greene said.
The new change rooms are among the best in Australia, incorporating warm up and cool down facilities, recovery baths, treatment rooms, and referee facilities.
In addition, this second stage saw around 2000 new spectator seats installed in the lower western concourse and north-western corner of the stand.
The NSW Government has invested $61 million in the new western grandstand, which will incorporate greater spectator facilities as well as improved corporate and media facilities, multi-purpose rooms and function areas.
The completed stand will also provide a modern façade for the Broadmeadow precinct.”
Ms McKay said she couldn’t be happier that the Hunter region’s sporting teams and loyal fans are a step closer to finally getting the stadium they deserve.
Newcastle and the Hunter is a proud sporting region with some of the most passionate fans in the world,” Ms McKay said.
The previous change rooms had a reputation in Rugby League and Football circles as being outdated and uncomfortable.
These new facilities are first-class and will allow the Knights and Jets to properly prepare for each home game before they play in front of their loyal fans,” she said.
Ms McKay said the State Government is absolutely committed to the upgrade of Energy Australia Stadium and ensuring the community makes the most of this new facility.
This is a community facility, that once complete, will allow more than 33,000 Hunter fans to cheer on their local teams.
It is hoped the new stadium will see Newcastle considered for a range of exciting new international sports and entertainment events in years to come,” Ms McKay said.
