Major sports complex opened in Paraburdoo

Paraburdoo has become home to a new sporting and community complex which rivals that of any North West town.

The Paraburdoo Sports, Fitness and Community Complex is the biggest investment in community infrastructure in the town in 30 years and was officially opened last Friday at a celebration officiated by Minister for Sport and Recreation Mick Murray.

The $15.7 million facility features new multipurpose sports courts, the refurbishment of existing courts, re-purposing of the current sports pavilion into the Karingal Neighbourhood Centre, a purpose-built gym, poolside amenities, oval amenities and a permanent softball diamond.

Shire of Ashburton president Kerry White said the aim of the complex was to enrich the sporting, recreational and social endeavours of all residents and provide a range of modern and dynamic venues for clubs and groups to use.

“Already the new complex has started to make a positive difference to the community and enables greater opportunities for social events, sport and recreation,” she said.

“It will be a hub for friends, families, colleagues, and even neighbouring Pilbara towns, to come together through sport or recreation and to enjoy a lifestyle that is synonymous with our region.”

Mr Murray said community sporting and recreation facilities like this were part of the fabric that kept country towns together.

Rio Tinto Paraburdoo operations general manager Kent Franey said the vibrant new facility was a great example of what government, industry and community could achieve together.

The complex was a jointly funded initiative with Rio Tinto contributing $8.5 million, the State Government’s Royalties for Regions program $5 million and the Shire of Ashburton $4.7 million.