| 15 May 2008 |
Maku Stadium working group met this week |
The interim working group for the Maku Stadium in
The group comprises representatives of traditional land owners
from the
High on the agenda for the meeting were the urgent need to
reopen the facility so that the city’s youth get another opportunity for
active sporting pursuits, and the question of finance for the venue’s
operations.
“Everyone wants the doors open as soon as possible but the
reality is that a solid financial plan is required beforehand, without which
Maku Stadium would risk further problems,” said GLSC Acting CEO Trevor
Donaldson.
“The interim working group is considering making a
submission to the Department of Indigenous Affairs for immediate repairs and
upfront funding for the stadium operations. The group is keen to ensure all
repairs are completed properly to cover public liability issues.
DIA will be requested to fast-track the application so that the stadium
can quickly resume its important role as one of the city’s main sporting
venues.”
Maku Stadium’s future has been in limbo for more than two
years since financial difficulties emerged, the result of increasing overheads
and falling revenues. On behalf of the city’s Aboriginal community the GLSC
volunteered to step in to help sort out the problems and identify a pathway to
reopening.
”Under the previous arrangements the stadium was always
going to have difficulty making ends meet. The interim working group is
determined that a realistic financial plan is employed this time and we urge the
State Government to do everything it can to help in this regard.
“Kalgoorlie-Boulder’s young Aboriginal people, in
particular, need healthy recreational pursuits and Maku Stadium has the
potential to deliver them,” Mr Donaldson said.
Media
Contact: Brian Wyatt 0417 970413;
David Berry 0417 963089, 9263 8715