State and federal politicians had a busy day in Lismore yesterday including the official opening of the Lismore Skatepark, an event manifesting a lot of happiness in the local skater community.
State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin and Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg got the very fun job of cutting the ribbon on one of Lismore’s most anticipated recents builds.
The park is part of the new $3.9-million, upgraded Lismore Regional Sports Hub.
Street and park bowls
The facility includes both ‘street’ and ‘park’ bowl sections, as well as a covered mini ramp.
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.
Mayor Krieg said the park is going to be a game changer for our young people. ‘Lismore kids will no longer have to travel to Goonellabah to have a skate.
‘The park is built to such a high standard that we will be able to host national and international competitions, 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.
Attracting world-class skaters
Cr Krieg said that as skating is now an Olympic event, and there are many world-class skaters coming from the region, a new skate park will be another string in the city’s 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.’
Honouring Travis Watson
Lismore MP Janelle Saffin said that the facility is the enduring legacy of her friend the late Travis Watson. ‘Travis 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,’ she said
‘I have backed in our new skatepark from the very beginning and I 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.
Prime location between the CBD and the Square
‘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.
CONVIC design
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.
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