AusLeisure

Plans to upgrade the Yass Skatepark are to move forward following the pledge of a $55,000 grant from the NSW Government.
Yass Valley Youth Council member Caitlin Nelson said thanks to all the grants they've received, the group will be able to start work very soon, stating "it's really great that we've got this grant from the state and the support from local council."
The NSW Government funding adds to $50,000 donation from the Yass Valley Council and a pool of money raised by the youth council.
Yass Valley Council Community Development Manager Cathy Campbell has been involved in the project for many years and was excited things were getting underway.
Campbell told local media "The Yass Valley Youth Council has been so persistent with this project. This project has shown them, amongst other things that persistence pays off.
"Those that reach for the stars eventually touch them. I am proud of their efforts, both past and present members."
The complete upgrade has been split into four stages, with stage one starting this month (September) and be complete in time for the Christmas holidays.
Nelson said the aim was to make the park more accessible for more youth. The park is difficult for new riders but Nelson said there wasn't enough variety for those who have been riding for several years.
Councillor Chris McKenzie-McHarg said council had ordered three skating half-bowls and a centrepiece for the park, adding "there's going to be an upgrade of what's there, making it a bigger park so more kids can get up there and utilise it."
Councilor McKenzie-McHarg said the Council had also pledged $25,000 a year for the next three years to help with the next stages saying that the people that use the skatepark were excited to see the plans that had been marked out at the park.
Nelson said there was still quite a way to go before they would have funds for the complete project, explaining "it's not over yet, the hard work is just beginning."
The youth council has sent out letters to businesses that might be able to help them with some in-kind work. They are hoping to get some local tradespeople involved that could donate some time or funds.
Nelson concluded "we hope that we can make it a really local project.
"It would be great if we could get assistance, we're looking for earthmovers and concreters, but more financial help or help with time would be good from anyone else."

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