Sydney Showground Main Arena Upgrade

The NSW Government and the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW have announced an upgrade of Sydney Showground's Main Arena, due to be completed in 2012.

Sydney Showground is operated by the RAS, under lease from the NSW Government.

The RAS welcomes the upgrade as it will provide wide ranging benefits to the people of NSW. The investment will help the Sydney Showground attract and retain major sporting and leisure events into the future — allowing the RAS to generate greater returns to invest back into community and regional programs around NSW.

The upgrade will see seating capacity increase from 13,000 to 25,000, and upgraded corporate hospitality, bars and function space, as well as new media facilities and improved audio and sound systems. The Main Arena surface will also be reconfigured.

Q: What is the upgrade?

- New, covered grandstands on the South East and North East sections of the Main Arena, increasing - permanent capacity from 13,000 to 25,000

- Upgraded corporate hospitality, bars, function space

- Refurbishment of existing grandstand area

- New media centre facilities, plus addition of a large video scoreboard and stadium sound system

- Reconfiguration of the shape and surface of the Main Arena

- Security fencing

Q: Who’s funding it?

The 2-stage upgrade to the Main Arena is expected to be completed for $72 million. Stage 1 of the project will be funded with contributions from the NSW State Government; the Australian Football League and the RAS. Stage 2 will be completed at a later date and will include provision of a roof over the new south-east public grandstand and some less critical ground amenities.

Q: What is the construction timeline for this project?

Construction on the Main Arena upgrade will begin later this year and be complete in 2012.

Q: Will the upgrade of the Main Arena affect the Sydney Royal Easter Show?

The proposed upgrade is a long-term investment that will help the RAS attract and retain major events into the future. Enhanced amenities will also increase visitor experience at the Sydney Royal Easter Show.

The Show’s point of difference – agricultural competitions – will not be compromised in any way, and we will be working to ensure construction doesn’t interfere with the Sydney Royal Easter Show.

We will be working closely with our Sydney Showground clients to make sure they are comfortable with how the improvements will be rolled out, and to ensure minimal disruption.

Q: How has this project come about?

This project has been on the drawing board in one form or another for several years and many of the key players have been involved in the strategic development of this precinct.

The upgrade will help the Sydney Showground attract and retain major sporting and leisure events into the future — allowing the RAS to generate greater returns to invest back into community and regional programs around NSW.

The RAS Council, that represents the interests of our members, has approved this fantastic project.

Q. Where do I go for more info?

More information about the upgrade will be posted on the Sydney Showground website as it become available.