Greater Shepparton Mayor Dinny Adem and Victorian Minister for Regional Development, the Hon Jaala Pulford MP opened the new arena.
The works included a new grassed surface and improved drainage and irrigation to prevent flooding on the main arena, two new light towers, a new bitumen promenade to link current east and west promenades, and power boxes along the promenade for external power access.
Greater Shepparton Mayor, Cr Dinny Adem said these works complemented significant infrastructure upgrades over the last decade including the McIntosh Centre events complex, refurbishment of the grand old lady heritage listed grandstand, hard stand area and multi-purpose pavilion.
“These works will help further cement greater Shepparton reputation as a leading major events destination in regional Victoria and give many of our key annual events the opportunity to expand and become more sustainable,” Cr Adem said.
“The new open space has already helped secure some significant national events such the upcoming Australian Caravan Club Nationals Muster in October which will see more than 500 visitors come to Shepparton for up to 10 days and the EJ EH Holden Nationals in November which is anticipated to bring 1,000 visitors to the region.
“This redevelopment presents the opportunity to host other significant large scale music events, festivals, large conferences and exhibitions, lifestyle events and sporting events which will see more people visiting, more jobs created, keeping businesses busy and the economy strong.
“I would also like to take the opportunity to thank showgrounds users for their patience while the works were happening.”
The project was funded by Council, who contributed $1.695 million and the Victorian Government who contributed $500,000.
