The upgraded Goldfields Basketball Stadium in Kalgoorlie has officially opened, following a $14.8 million transformation.
The project featured two new indoor courts to compliment the existing three courts, including a showcourt with grandstand seating for almost around 1,200 spectators.
The project was supported by a $6.8 million funding commitment from the Western Australian State Government - a 2021 election commitment - which has revitalised the facility to better meet the needs of spectators and players of all ages.
WA Premier Roger Cook said, "My WA Labor Government is delivering for regional communities across WA.
"Basketball's popularity is exploding in our State, and we're delivering major investments so West Aussies can get out on the court and reach their full potential.
"This is yet another key election commitment for the Goldfields delivered by Ali Kent and my WA Labor Government."
Additional funding of almost $4.5 million was provided by the Australian Government as part of the Building Better Regions Fund, $3 million by the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder and $500,000 by the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Basketball Association.
The redevelopment of the Goldfields Basketball Stadium included:
The result is a greatly enhanced playing and spectating experience at a community facility that is the home court for the Goldfields Giants in WA's top tier NBL1 competition, as well as local senior and junior leagues.
The venue is also hopeful of attracting larger events such as another NBL match, as it did in 2004 when the Perth Wildcats played a home fixture at the facility. It also staged a pre-season Super Netball match in 2020.
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City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder Mayor Glenn Wilson said, "The redevelopment of the Goldfields Basketball Stadium is a leap forward for Kalgoorlie-Boulder. Sport is such an important part of life here, and having a facility like this shows just how much we value our local teams and the role they play in our community.
"The Goldfields Giants now have a home court that matches their passion and talent, and it's a place where players of all ages can come together to develop their skills and love for the game. For our juniors especially, this is where dreams start.
"The City is proud to have contributed $3 million to making this project happen because we know how much this state-of-the-art facility means to our community. I know visiting teams from Perth and beyond will enjoy playing here just as much as our locals do. This stadium is a win for everyone in Kalgoorlie-Boulder.
"It's great to see all levels of Government come together to assist with funding this project and hats off to the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Basketball Association for their dedication to making it a reality. I know they'll continue to make this stadium a hub for regional sports excellence, filled with community spirit for many years to come."