Have your say - SA Athletics Stadium Concept Plan

Published Wed 07 Dec 2022

A message to the Athletics SA community from President and Chair, Jane Russo

The State Government’s commitment to build a new home for the South Australian Institute of Sport (SASI) was announced in June 2021 by the former Liberal Government.

Under the current Government there has been a further commitment to develop the Mile End Precinct, including the placement of the National Centre of Sports Aerodynamics, beach volleyball courts and a car parking upgrade.

On November 21, 2022 The Advertiser reported plans which are currently out for public consultation.

Access the plans HERE

The State Commission Assessment Panel (SCAP) is seeking feedback on the construction of a multi-level sports training and research facility, which includes offices, learning/teaching areas, a café, associated car parking and landscaping at the Mile End Sport Precinct, as part of the public consultation process.

Comments on the plan, including whether or not it should be approved, are due by December 13, 2022.

The Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing (ORSR) is undertaking this development on the behalf of the Department for Infrastructure and Transport.

Until now, Athletics South Australia had only been engaged about the intention and initial plans for the proposed SASI development. Specific details are yet to be finalised and Athletics SA is now in direct communication with ORSR about the Stage 1 specifics, including precinct layout.

The Athletics SA Board and Infrastructure Committee has begun discussions with ORSR and has raised the following key concerns regarding the impact the plans will have on our ability to function to as a sport, and to continue to deliver high quality local, National and International events:

The position of the proposed National Centre of Sports Aerodynamics
The location and number of beach volleyball courts
Reduced green space for athlete warm-ups
The functionality and position of throws and pole vault spaces
The reduction of car parks
The increased footprint on the precinct and its management

Specific questions Athletics SA is raising, that require further discussion with ORSR include:

What benefits and value will the development bring to Athletics SA?
How will the changes impact the athletics training and warm-up areas?
Will these changes impact our athletes’ ability to access and use these facilities?
Will the reduction of the training area’s green space impact Athletics SA’s ability to host significant events such as the Australian Track and Field Championships?

Athletics SA will continue to work with ORSR to address these concerns and will keep our membership informed of details as they arise and of any future opportunity to engage in the process.

Club, Member and General Public inquiries about this Plan can be directed to Athletics SA CEO, Shane Fuller via 08 8354 3477 or ceo@athleticssa.com.au

Jane Russo,
Athletics SA President & Chair of the Board