At the funding announcement last week were (L-R) Forbes Shire Deputy Mayor Chris Roylance, Forbes Shire Mayor Phyllis Miller, Forbes Shire Council General Manager, Steve Loane and NSW Upper House MP Sam Farraway.
The Forbes Racecourse precinct is going to be turned into a multi-purpose equestrian arena thanks to a $3.5 million grant.
“This new multi-purpose equestrian arena will cater for all equestrian sports, including ranch sorting, camp drafting, show jumping, dressage, pony club, riding for the disabled and rodeo,” said NSW Upper House MP Sam Farraway last week.
“The new facility will also be capable of supporting sports education, training and skill development events.
“This Government is investing in facilities that will provide our local communities to enjoy the benefits of sport and active recreation and building what matters to the people of NSW,” said Sam.
Forbes Shire Council received the grant from the NSW Government’s Multi-Sport Community Facility Fund.
Forbes Shire Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM said council was excited to have this opportunity to build the new facility.
“Forbes has a long and distinguished equestrian history and this will give us the opportunity to continue to grow with a state-of-the art facility for sports education, training, skill development and as a venue for major competitions.
“We are also excited about the potential this support will mean for our very active Riding for the Disabled members as this facility will be an inclusive and all abilities accessible space for riders, competitors, spectators and organisers.
“The arena also has potential to expand its offerings to community groups and functions requiring a large outdoor space,” said the Mayor.
Almost $100 million was awarded to 38 clubs, associations, sporting organisations and councils across NSW in Round 1 of the fund, which invests in new or upgraded multi-sport facilities to provide more opportunities for people to play sport and be active.