NEW SKATE PUMP TRACK KICKFLIPS INTO COOLAMON SHIRE

SKATERS and young people in the Coolamon Shire now have a another place to meet and keep active with a new skating ring and concrete launch pads officially open and ready to tour the region.

Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development and Federal Member for Riverina Michael McCormack said the new modular pump track would rotate through Ardlethan, Ganmain, Marrar and Matong, providing a much-needed, youth-dedicated recreational space in the region.

“The track contains various inclines and declines, creating an exciting landscape for anyone who wants to skate or ride their bike along it,” Mr McCormack said.

“The best part is that anyone who rides it will automatically generate their own speed, so there’s no need to pedal hard – ensuring people of all skills and abilities will have a good time.”

New South Wales Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said the track sits on a large concrete launch slab.

“Not only does the slab help kids access the pump track but when it’s in a different town it’ll serve equally well as basketball courts, for anyone who prefers ball sports to skating,” Ms Cooke said.

Mayor of Coolamon Shire John Seymour said the idea came about following the success of a similar project in Matong.

“Creating these fun places where young people can socialise, exercise and let off a little steam in a fun and proactive way is key to keeping our region a lively and happy place for people of all ages,” Councillor Seymour said.

This project received $45,800 in funding under the Federal Liberal and Nationals Government’s Building Better Regions Fund. This is a $641 million investment designed to create jobs, drive economic growth and build stronger regional communities into the future.

The New South Wales Government also contributed $63,196 while Coolamon Shire Council provided the remaining $75,491 of the $184,487 project.