COFFS Coast Jump Club’s (CCJC) successful application in the Sport Infrastructure Recovery Fund grant means the club can upgrade the amenities block in the Showground.

The $273,088.00 funding comes from the Sport Infrastructure Recovery Fund, which supports the rebuild, repair and betterment of essential community assets targeted for arts and culture, sports and Aboriginal communities.

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“This is a fantastic opportunity for the club and the grounds as it not only means wonderful modern amenities for our members, volunteers and visiting riders, but the amenities will now be accessible and inclusive for all people who use and visit the grounds, including those with disability,” Sally Hutchison, Secretary of CCJC told News Of The Area.

“They will also be a safer and energy efficient space with new lighting being installed, and shower dividers that are currently see-through will be replaced, giving privacy and safety to those who use them.

“To have a space that is modern, safe, that doesn’t leak, where the water actually drains and has working showers and toilets will be a joy.

“It is projected that more people will feel welcome at the grounds, and as a result, will bring more members to the club, and more riders to our sport.”

The new amenities will provide an accessible, modern, welcoming, safe and hygienic space for women, girls, boys, and men of all nationalities and backgrounds when visiting, competing at, volunteering and camping at the grounds.

The amenities will be brought up to, and beyond code for disability use.

Energy efficient lighting and advanced technology will be present in the facilities, as well as a large vibrant mural to welcome all users to the space.

It will have mirrors, storage space and hanging hooks, vanities and power points, new tiling, access ramps, braille entry signs, as well as sensor taps, urinals and hand dryers.

“Damage, leaks and drainage will be repaired and upgraded,” added Sally.

“The current shower curtains that are hanging by a hook will be replaced with doors.”

Construction will begin in July, and it is projected to be completed in time for the Spring Showjumping Festival in October.

All of the construction will be undertaken by local businesses and artists.

“The refurbishment will be carried out by Harbour Bathrooms, and the mural will be custom designed by local Indigenous artist Nelli Gallop, who is originally from Dharawal country,” said Sally.

“Coffs Showgrounds are a wonderful place for not only the people of our sport of show jumping to come together, but for all Showground users and visitors to enjoy.

“It is a beautiful space in the middle of Coffs Harbour that we hope to see upgraded, and used, to its full potential.

“CCJC had a vision back in 2016 to bring equestrian sports back into the heart of Coffs Harbour and this is one more step in the right direction.

“Coffs Coast Jump Club are incredibly thankful to receive this grant and look forward to welcoming people to this new space,” said Sally.

This grant was made possible through the hard work of CCJC Board member Alita Childs.

By Andrea FERRARI