Premier opens $65M redeveloped Sydney Showground Stadium

Hon Barry O’Farrell MP
Premier of NSW; Minister for Western Sydney

NSW Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Barry O’Farrell and Minister for Sport and Recreation Graham Annesley today officially opened the upgraded Sydney Showground Stadium at Sydney Olympic Park ahead of Greater Western Sydney’s first home game at the ground on Saturday night.

“The NSW Government’s investment has created a multi-purpose facility in the heart of Western Sydney,” Mr O’Farrell said.

“Western Sydney residents are the big beneficiaries of this upgrade, with the establishment of yet another first class sporting facility in the region,” he said.

It’s been a big week for Western Sydney sports fan, with Mr Annesley opening the revamped Sydney Motorsport Park at Eastern Creek.

Mr O’Farrell said the stadium redevelopment had been jointly funded by the NSW Government ($45 million), the Australian Football League ($12 million) and the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW ($7 million).

Key features of the upgrade include:

• new grandstands to the North East and South East of the Stadium;
• an increase in capacity from approximately 13,000 to 25,000, with all additional capacity seated and 40,000 capacity in concert mode; and,
• upgraded corporate hospitality, bars and function space, as well as new media facilities and improved audio and sound systems.

“The Sydney Showground is a unique venue with an outstanding international reputation for featuring some of Australia’s most interesting events including sporting events, concerts, conferences and festivals.

“It plays an important role in promoting the economic and social heritage of our rural sector by delivering Australia’s largest event - the Sydney Royal Easter Show.

“The showground also serves as the home ground for the Greater Western Sydney Giants AFL team,” Mr O’Farrell said.

Mr Annesley said the Stadium will be warmly welcomed by the AFL community.

“As the home of the GWS Giants, the Stadium will host up to seven games a season including this Saturday’s first match on their home turf,” Mr Annesley said.

Royal Agricultural Society of NSW (RAS) Chief Executive Michael Kenny said the new Stadium will enable the RAS to retain and attract a larger breadth of events well into the future.

“Sydney Showground already has an enviable reputation as a leader in the events industry and this upgrade will only strengthen its position and generate significant economic activity in Western Sydney and for the state of NSW.

“The upgrade of this government-owned, RAS-operated asset is a long term investment for the community.”

Greater Western Sydney chairman Tony Shepherd thanked the NSW Government, the RAS and the AFL for their support in making the redevelopment possible adding the Giants were looking forward to their first game against Essendon this Saturday.

“This is an outstanding stadium which will offer a great experience for all fans and showcase AFL in the heart of Sydney’s Olympic precinct,” Mr Shepherd said.

Source: Projectlink.com.au

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