A sign is mighted on white fencing outside the Bill Jacob Athletics Centre, reading the name of the building and accompanied by the Wagga Wagga City Council logo.
NEW FACILITY: Contracts are now in place for earthworks to begin Mid-February, marking the beginning of the Bill Jacob Athletics Centre upgrade.
Projects & Works

Redevelopment of Bill Jacob Athletics Centre to start mid-February

Published: 24 Jan 2024 11:01am

Redevelopment of the Bill Jacob Athletics centre is set to commence, with the $5.1 million upgrade due to start in February.

The project will transform the centre into a World Athletics Class 2 certification, providing a synthetic track and infield infrastructure for all nine disciplines.

The redevelopment is expected to encourage greater use of the facilities, and an increase in events per year as a result of the improved facilities.

Director Strategy and Projects Phil McMurray says contracts are now in place with works to begin mid-February.

“Earthworks contracts are in place now, with demolition works to start immediately following the NSW Junior Touch carnival,” Mr McMurray said.

Close up of original running track at the centre. the grass is brown in colour and looks very aged.

“The demolition and earthworks will take probably about a month, with all works to be completed around December this year.

“Construction works will be undertaken by Polytan Asia Pacific, who have constructed similar, high-class facilities in Sydney, Melbourne, and Newcastle.

“The new facility will be orientated in the same way as the original, but with new infrastructure including an all-weather 400-metre synthetic track, site drainage, automatic irrigation, long jump runways, warm area, shot put throwing circles, steeplechase pit, javelin runways, discus throw cage, high jump runway, and pole vault, as well as track and field lighting to enable evening competitions.

“It’s a real opportunity for the wider community to get involved in athletics.”

This project has received a combination of funding including $2.7 million from NSW Office of Sport, $1.8 million from Wagga Wagga City Council, and a grant of $580,000 from the NSW State Government Stronger Country Communities Fund (for the lighting).

The centre is to be closed to sporting groups immediately following the NSW Junior Touch Carnival from the 16 – 18 February.

Works are currently scheduled to be completed in late 2024.

More details about the project can be found at our Have Your Say website:

Bill Jacob Athletics Centre Project Page