THE Australind township is set to benefit from a new $1.1 million skatepark facility.
The facility was given the go ahead by council on the conditions of government funding and a contribution of $50,000 from the local community.
A volunteer committee called Australind Skate Park has been formed to spearhead the fundraising drive to obtain the community contribution with the committee calling upon local businesses in the south west to help achieve the $50,000 goal.
Marketing officer for Australind Skate Park Seana Sloan said the skatepark was a necessity for the Australind community.
“The number of kids participating in skate-sports is starting to outweigh the number in other sports, so there is definitely a demand for it,” she said.
“It’s a great initiative and we’ve received a lot of support from the community for it.”
The skate park plans have received rave reviews from Skateboarding Australia WA, mature aged skateboarders and professional freestyle riders from across the state. Bunbury BMX rider Lauren Reynolds, who represented Australia at the 2012 Summer Olympics, attended a fundraising event hosted last year to show her support.
The skatepark will also feature a staged area to host community events.
Ms Sloan said with the growth of the Australind community and areas such as Treendale or Kingston, the facility was a must-have.
“Australind’s population is around 15,000 and is set to double in 15 years,” she said.
“This facility is set right in the heart of the community and will benefit everyone.”
There are two options for local businesses to assist in the community contribution. They can avail of a unique advertising opportunity at the park with advertising packages of $8,000 for a five-year period or they can simply donate a financial sum.
If your business is interested in advertising at the venue or providing a donation then email australindskatepark@bigpond.com or call the Australind Skate Park group on 0410 941 735.