Published on 25 November 2024
An important milestone in constructing Lismore’s new $3.9 million Lismore Skatepark was reached this week, with the pouring of 2400m2 of concrete set to begin. Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg and State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin were on hand to inspect the works. “This is starting to get very real,” Mayor Krieg said. “This will be a game-changer for our young people who will no longer have to travel to Goonellabah to have a skate. It will also be built to such a high standard that we can host national and international competitions, adding to Lismore’s already strong reputation for having the best sporting facilities in regional NSW.” The facility includes both ‘street’ and ‘park’ (bowl) sections and a covered mini ramp, which is eagerly anticipated by the local skater community. The design also includes a rail paying tribute to the lateTravis Watson, an avid skater, mentor and advocate for skating in Lismore and the wider community. State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said Travis, a dear friend, successful businessman and gifted skater, would be stoked to see his vision of a modern and user-friendly skatepark becoming a reality as part of a Youth Precinct. “This landmark project for Lismore is fully funded by the NSW Government with $3.9 million delivered under Round 2 of the Multi-Sport Community Facility Fund,” Ms Saffin said. “I have backed in our new, centrally located skatepark from the very beginning, working with Travis and others to ensure our skating community had a big say in the design so that it works for them. “I have faith that expert contractors CONVIC will produce a skatepark which will attract elite skaters in future competitions and also be accessible for local youth keen to take up the sport.” The design was developed by CONVIC, Australia’s leading skatepark and youth space design and construction company, in consultation with the Council and the Lismore community. CONVIC ran several community workshops in September 2023 as part of the design development process. Throughout the design stage, it also extensively consulted with key local stakeholders in the skate and riding community. Additionally, CONVIC consulted with professional skaters, coaches, and event organisers, including Olympic skateboarding judge Renton Millar, to ensure the skatepark could attract and host competitions and training events while meeting the local community's needs. Mayor Krieg said Council is close to finalising negotiations to bring several national skating events to Lismore. “This new skatepark will benefit our local businesses as those playing or coming to watch these 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 to attract even more visitors.”
Picture: Left to right: Member for Page Janelle Saffin, Deputy Mayor Jeri Hall, Willow Hall, Reya Davis, Joanne Sriamporn, Indiana Davis, Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg.