AusLeisure

Construction has commenced on Surfing Australia's multi-million dollar training facility at Casuarina Beach, NSW.

Deputy Prime Minister, Treasurer Wayne Swan was recently on hand to turning the first soil on the $2 million High Performance Centre, funded by the Federal Government.

The world's first facility dedicated to the development of elite surfers and coaches, it will, according to a Surfing Australia statement "ensure Australia maintains its place as a world leader in the sport."

When complete, the two-level High Performance Centre will boast state of the art education facilities, equipment and accommodation and will be at the forefront of sports science and coaching development for surfing.

Joined by former surfing world champions Layne Beachley and Mark Richards at the turning of the soil, Treasurer Swan explained "surfing in Australia has a proud history, producing not only countless world champions but also providing a great source of recreation, fun and exercise for many Australians.

"As a keen surfer myself, I'm especially delighted that the (Federal) Government have been able to make this project possible

"I have no doubt that this High Performance Centre will play a big role in developing the next generation of Australian surfing champions."

Surfing Australia Chief Executive Andrew Stark added "this centre is a world's first and will offer Australian surfers a serious competitive advantage to compete on the world surfing stage.

"The new centre will ensure that Australia continues to dominate world surfing and produce future world champions."

Seven-time world champion Layne Beachley said she would have loved a facility like the HPC to be available when she was beginning her professional career, adding "I think it is wonderful for surfing.

"A facility like this ensures the whole spectrum of professional surfing is catered for from juniors right through to current world champions to utilise the amazing facilities and training on offer."

The facility will feature a surf specific gym, auditorium, offices, testing and treatment room, accommodation for sixteen and has been designed in consultation with the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS).

The centre will also conduct specialised programs designed for women, Indigenous Australians and disabled surfers.

The facility is on a dedicated $1.2 million freehold title gifted to Surfing Australia by Consolidated Properties, developers of Casuarina Beach.

It is expected to be ready for operation by May next year.

18th August 2010 - GO AHEAD FOR DEDICATED SURF TRAINING FACILITY

5th October 2009 - FORUM ASSESSES NEEDS OF WOMEN IN SURF RIDING

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