The council is considering selling the facility to a private company.

The History of the Dunc Gray Velodrome

The Dunc Gray Velodrome has a rich history dating back to 1999, when it was built to host track cycling events at the Sydney Olympics. The velodrome was constructed at a cost of $42 million, making it one of the most expensive sports venues in Australia at the time. The facility was designed to accommodate a range of events, including track cycling, BMX racing, and speedway. Key features of the velodrome include:

The Current State of the Dunc Gray Velodrome

The velodrome has been in operation for over two decades, hosting numerous high-profile events, including the Sydney Games, the Commonwealth Games, and the UCI Track Cycling World Championships. However, the facility has faced significant challenges in recent years, including declining attendance and revenue.

The council’s decision will have a significant impact on the Olympic athletes who rely on the facility for training and competition.

The Uncertainty Surrounding the Olympic Stadium

The Olympic Stadium, a 45,000-seat venue, has been a cornerstone of the NSW Institute of Sport’s track program. The stadium has hosted numerous high-profile events, including the 2000 Sydney Olympics and the 2015 Athletics World Championships. However, the council’s decision to cease the track program has left many wondering about the future of the stadium.

The Maintenance Bill

The council’s proposed maintenance bill of $500,000-a-year is a significant concern for ratepayers. The bill is expected to be passed on to the community through increased rates, which could have a substantial impact on local residents. The uncertainty surrounding the bill has led to a sense of unease among ratepayers, who are worried about the financial burden of maintaining the stadium.

The Impact on Olympic Aspirants

The cessation of the track program has significant implications for Olympic aspirants who rely on the facility for training and competition. The stadium has been a hub for athletes to prepare for major events, and its closure will leave a significant gap in the training landscape. The uncertainty surrounding the maintenance bill will also make it difficult for athletes to plan their training and competition schedules.

The NSW Institute of Sport’s Response

The NSW Institute of Sport has taken a proactive approach to addressing the uncertainty surrounding the Olympic Stadium. The institute has ceased its track program, citing the uncertainty surrounding the maintenance bill as the reason.

The council has been working with the velodrome’s management team to develop a business plan for the facility.

The Legacy of the Sydney Olympics

The Sydney Olympics, held in 2000, left a lasting legacy in the city of Sydney. One of the most iconic venues of the games was the Sydney Velodrome, a state-of-the-art cycling facility that hosted the track cycling events. The velodrome was a marvel of engineering, with a unique design that allowed for high-speed cycling and a seating capacity of over 15,000 spectators.

The Gift to the Canterbury-Bankstown Council

After the Sydney Olympics, the velodrome was gifted to the Canterbury-Bankstown Council, a local government authority in the western suburbs of Sydney. The council has been responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the facility, with the state government covering the other half of the costs. This partnership has allowed the council to continue to use the velodrome as a valuable resource for the local community.

The Council’s Efforts to Upgrade the Facility

Despite the council’s best efforts, the velodrome has been in need of an upgrade.

The case outlines the benefits of a velodrome in NSW, including the potential for a new national cycling team and a major international cycling event.

The Case for a Velodrome in NSW

The NSW Government has been exploring the possibility of building a velodrome in the state.

Agreement Reached for Canterbury-Bankstown Cycling Facility

A significant agreement has been reached between the Office of Sport and Canterbury-Bankstown Council, covering the operation and management of the facility.