State Sport & Recreation Infrastructure Plan 2020-40

3 Minister’s message 4 Introduction 9 Potential benefits of Sport & Recreation Infrastructure

14 What we learned 16 Identified needs 24 Final considerations

Image front cover: Oval and Riverbank Footbridge Source: Alamy

2 Minister’s message

The Plan represents our state’s sport and A strategic approach to investment recreation infrastructure priorities at this in sport and recreation infrastructure point in time; however, it is a dynamic also helps to maintain our state’s high document, enabling us to be nimble and liveability status. We want to develop respond to opportunities as they emerge. facilities that fill current gaps, are Planning is by its very nature constantly accessible, and encourage all South evolving. Inevitably projects may stall for Australians to live an active and a variety of reasons, and others will gain healthy lifestyle. significant momentum quickly. I would like to take this opportunity to This plan is being released in the midst thank all of the individuals, sporting of the most significant public health and clubs, councils and other dedicated economic challenge of our lifetime. The stakeholders for participating in financial impact of COVID-19 will mean consultation forums and providing that the State’s investment decisions feedback for the Plan. I would also like The Marshall Government will lead our in the future will need to be measured, to thank the Office for Recreation, Sport state into a sporting golden era through a requiring sound business cases to and Racing (ORSR) for leading the bold new plan. From grassroots sporting support the prioritisation of limited development of the Plan. groups to elite athletes and the facilities resources. In this environment, the There is nothing stopping us from needed to support them, this plan sets Plan’s objectives represent our long term becoming the number one sporting state out how we will change the game for commitment to sport in the state. in the nation, but we all need to own this sport and recreation in our state. The Government will investigate and goal and play our part in achieving it. I am thrilled to present to you the State seek to advance projects that drive The Plan is an invitation to everyone to Sport and Recreation Infrastructure investment, attract elite athletes and take a fresh look at the opportunities Plan (the Plan), which will position South inspire young sportspeople to achieve available for sport and sport (SA) as a national and world their dreams. infrastructure development. Together, leader in sport and recreation. we can take steps towards transforming This investment will boost construction this sector and stepping into our new role The Plan recognises that sporting and tourism and have a positive impact as a sporting leader in Australia and on facilities that are high quality, on the health, education and economy of the world stage. contemporary and support the our State. The Plan is also a call to action attraction of significant national and for government and stakeholders to get international sporting events will show the SA community more active . our competitors that we are open for Infrastructure is the backbone of success sporting business and there is no better which is why the State Government place for future athletes to live, train and has already got the ball rolling with compete than in SA. Hon Corey Wingard MP the completion of the Memorial Drive Minister for Recreation, Sport Our recent investigation confirms that upgrade. This saw us successfully secure and Racing investment in local facilities is the key to a five-year deal to host the Adelaide laying a solid foundation to achieve our International starting in 2020, which was goal. Establishing these building blocks the first international tennis competition will help foster growth for our future in Adelaide since 2008. The success of athletes, lift the standard of training and the International had a flow on effect, competitions and encourage more South which saw Adelaide host the Davis Cup Australians to participate in sport. tie in March 2020.

3 1 Introduction

Delivering economic growth resources, facilities and venues are with regions, councils and state sport and creating prosperity for all important to continue to inspire people and recreation organisations to develop South Australians is a focus and meet this demand. Central to the infrastructure plans which will feed into Plan is the identification of what future versions of the Plan. Pilot work is for the State Government. High South Australians need from their being undertaken with a range of sports quality sport and recreation sport and recreation facilities, both using a platform and its metadata infrastructure generates economic now and in the future, so the State capabilities to predict potential areas of benefits, contributes to our high Government can lead the charge for growth and opportunities to increase liveability standards, and provides change and investment. facility access and membership. opportunities to showcase SA as Successful facility planning and The Plan will completely change the a first-rate tourist destination, development require corporate dynamic for councils, associations, as well as an exciting place to live, partnerships from a range of clubs and community organisations work, study and do business. stakeholders, particularly councils, seeking State Government investment who are the heart and major provider in sport and recreation infrastructure. of sport and recreation activities in Good ideas will no longer be considered South Australians have a distinctive our communities. We want to work ready for investment; proponents must passion for sport and our growing with councils, as well as the private undertake the necessary planning, population is increasingly keen to watch sector and individual investors, to feasibility and business case work and participate in it. Therefore, the develop strong partnerships that bring before making representation for capabilities and quality of our sporting everyone’s contributions together to funding. This will ensure that we do not maximise the outcome for our state. see a repeat of past practices which include projects failing to commence During the research phase of the Plan, for many years after being funded, we discovered that obtaining supply funding shortfalls because projects and demand data from sporting weren’t properly scoped out or projects organisations was very challenging failing to be financially sustainable with many gaps in the information once built. needed. Despite the challenges, we identified over 200 projects with costs Technological advancement, changing greater than $2 million, providing a human behaviours, population growth, good indication of community needs. ageing, and urbanisation are just some of the major forces impacting and The onset of COVID-19, and the influencing the demand for sport and unprecedented economic and social recreation infrastructure, and the nature challenges it presents highlights the of facilities required. critical importance of sport to society and the economy. It is likely however, Whether it be the introduction of to impact the sector’s ability to invest new sport, demographics, rules, in infrastructure, particularly over standards or formats, community Glenelg Beach, Adelaide the short-term. The Government is needs and demands are everchanging. South Australian Tourism Commission committed to working with sporting These changes require updates in /Josie Withers organisations and the private sector infrastructure design in order to realise to ensure the State maximises its the full range of economic benefits investment in key infrastructure available from a participation, viewer wherever possible. and spectator standpoint. The following were considered in the development of In order to predict the future demand the Plan. and prioritise, the Government will work

4 1 Socio-economic status • Infrastructure must be built using connected with spectators thanks to and participation the principles of universal design to technology-enabled advancements People living in the highest areas ensure people with a disability are including improved camera angles, of disadvantage have the lowest able to participate. live decision review systems, better participation rates in sport and analysis and statistics, interactive • Infrastructure must cater for the recreation. Therefore, consideration mobile applications, virtual reality and increase of female participation must be given to how we develop, social media. in ‘traditionally male’ sports and upgrade and maintain infrastructure councils and sporting organisations Future sport and recreation in areas facing disadvantage to enable need to show leadership and infrastructure improvements must equal participation from all people. schedule equal access to facilities. consider technology advancements to We must also provide appealing remain contemporary and appealing to recreation and open spaces that are Modifications or adjustments could spectators, viewers and participants at low cost and unstructured. include reducing field dimensions, venues and at home. The recent addition handicapping, limiting physical contact, of upgraded lighting and sound systems 2 Access for all changing the type of equipment used at the is an example Older Australians, people from 1 and reducing competition time. of work to a key facility to ensure it culturally and linguistically diverse Furthermore, an increased focus on remains contemporary in an evolving backgrounds (CALD) and people living place-based, recreational activities or market. Furthermore, reasonably with a disability are far less likely to non-competitive activities, with the anticipated technological advancements participate in sport and recreation. To objective of increasing participation will also need to be considered, address this imbalance we will consider or as a conduit to sport could also be including the ability to broadcast in the following: a solution. various formats. For example, spider cameras that move both vertically and • Infrastructure must be flexible 3 Connectivity and productivity enough to satisfy the needs of horizontally to expand viewing capacity 91% of Australians have a smartphone,2 multiple sporting codes and are now being installed in major arenas which changes the way people search, recreational activities, including around the world. organise, play and watch sport. catering for cultural requirements Event organisers are becoming more such as prayer rooms.

1 Richards, Dr. R & May, C. (2019). Mature-aged Sport and Physical Activity. Available: https://www.clearinghouseforsport.gov.au/knowledge_base/sport_participation/community_participation/ mature-aged_sport_and_physical_activity. Credit: FatCamera / Source: iStock 2 https://www2.deloitte.com/au/mobile-consumer-survey

3 4 Work-life balance Australians are finding it increasingly difficult to manage their work-life balance and access structured sporting activities whether it’s for themselves or supporting others to do so. As a result, time-poor, health-conscious Australians are finding more convenient ways to exercise to maintain their health such as actively commuting to and from work or undertaking low-volume high-intensity training.

5 Customer choice There has been an increase in health consciousness now that people are able to access their own fitness data. Smart watches track and monitor A survey by Price Waterhouse activity levels, set targets and provide Coopers of global sporting leaders tailored feedback regarding daily steps, overwhelmingly found that esports has workouts and energy expenditure. the highest revenue growth potential Technological advancements like this of any sport, with the esports economy have the potential to move consumers forecast to double in size by 2022 away from traditional structured (from 2018 reference).4 sport and towards recreational For example, the 2019 Fortnite World based activities. Cup saw more than 40 million players Adventure sports are gaining popularity from over 200 countries play off for a with younger people and those total prize pool of $700 million. The top Sporting organisations use AI for talent who connect to a counterculture of 700 finalists played at a sold-out Arthur identification and selection, training irreverence, freedom of expression Ashe Stadium in New York, watched and coaching, injury management and thrill seeking. Examples include by 79,000 spectators. While there and recovery and post-game analysis skateboarding, kite surfing, inline is some contention around whether and feedback. To ensure that elite skating, freestyle BMX and rock- esports is truly a ‘sport’, it appears athletes and sporting teams in SA climbing.3 While these activities the sector is growing, and it is here to remain competitive on a national and are typically conducted in natural stay. As a result, there is demand for global stage, the infrastructure and surrounds, there is a growing facilities and infrastructure that can technology used to test, train and demand for specialised facilities house live audiences and meet internet compete must be world-class. to accommodate participation and speed demands. These facilities are competition. often multipurpose and used for more 6 Esports and technology traditional sports outside of esports tournaments. Esports is a new phenomenon sweeping the globe where competition Artificial Intelligence (AI) impacts nearly is facilitated through video games. every professional sport through a Major tournaments involve players range of smart technologies which competing in front of large crowds, mimic humans’ ability to sense, think both live and online, for increasingly and act, continually learning and large prizes. growing from previous decisions.

Image top: World Cup 2015, Adelaide South Australian Tourism Commission 3 https://www.clearinghouseforsport.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0007/564073/The_Future_of_ /John Montesi Australian_Sport_-_Full_Report.pdf Image below: Arlington E Games Centre, 4 https://www.pwc.ch/en/publications/2018/PwC%20Sports%20Survey-2018_web.pdf www.dfw.cbslocal.com

6 7 Sport and entertainment or esports arenas and for community precincts sporting facilities, the local Country Fire New sports fields and arenas are Service, rotary club or health services forming part of wider precincts that can share use and keep costs down. create sport or entertainment hubs. Urban consolidation, particularly in SA’s Sports arenas are being positioned inner metropolitan area, means there nearby cinemas, restaurants, bars and is insufficient green space to create retail outlets, with hotels, convention new sport and recreation facilities. centres, bars and parklands also close Therefore, public and private schools, by. Memorial Drive in SA is an example and tertiary entities need to explore of a sports precinct and Central Park ways to share their facilities with the in New York is an example of a major wider community. Planning for new, entertainment precinct. upgraded or smart infrastructure 8 Complementary use must also consider the needs of of infrastructure both sporting and education groups. Councils and sporting organisations need The South Australian Government’s to maximise infrastructure use to ensure Parks 2025: Our Parks future initiative their operating model is sustainable and takes advantage of the natural AFL Max, Adelaide the money invested results in maximum environment and will invest in creating AFL Max/Rachel Jesse community benefit. Complementary more places for the community to uses for large-scale sporting facilities connect with nature and be active. include concert venues, exhibition spaces

Sport admin Youth offices centre

Education Retail and training

Youth Health club community (24/7 gym) services

Allied health Multi-purpose Toy/sport library services Facility

Neighbourhood Community house gardens

Conference Accommodation facilities

Art, music Community and dance events

7 2020 Adelaide International Women’s Singles Grand Final, Adelaide Adelaide International

SA Aquatic and Leisure Centre, Adelaide Source: ORSR

8 2 Potential benefits of sport & recreation infrastructure

The potential benefits of Economic benefits and support staff. The group stayed investment in sport and at the Grand Hotel in Glenelg for the Infrastructure delivery recreation infrastructure are duration of their stay. and operation best described under economic, The development of sport and When the Lotte Giants were not health and social benefits. recreation infrastructure creates training, they played tourists, going jobs in planning, construction and on fishing charters, playing golf ongoing operations and maintenance. across Adelaide and dining out at the For example, the Adelaide Oval restaurants and cafes in Glenelg. The redevelopment created 1,000 jobs in group hired ten mini vans, a chef and ongoing operations and maintenance. staff for the provision of lunches at the facility. It is estimated that the The State Government’s past Lotte Giants training camp generated investments in sporting infrastructure an economic benefit of approximately demonstrate the economic return of $1.12 million. these assets. Following the opening of the new SA Aquatic and Leisure At a local level, the $10 million invested Centre in 2011, Events SA were by the State Government through successful in securing the most grassroots football, cricket and netball prestigious swimming events in the grants programs has generated $42 nation. In 2019, the venue hosted the million in project outcomes and created Australian Swimming Championships an estimated 173 jobs in construction. and the Australian Age Swimming Events and tourism Championships, which generated an Modern elite sport is as much about economic return of $1.78 million and the fans as it is the athletes. Attendees $4.43 million respectively. Over the often travel to sporting events, spending past eight years, the venue housed ten money on accommodation, ticketing, events including the Olympic Trials merchandise and entertainment, as well in 2012 and 2016 (which it will house as indirect expenditure at cafes and again in 2021) for a total economic retail outlets, with attendees often benefit of more than $21 million to the extending their stay to enjoy other South Australian economy. SA tourist attractions.

Another example is an investment Quality sporting infrastructure that of $50,000 from the State Government is capable of servicing large crowds which was matched by another $50,000 is a prerequisite for hosting major from SA, Softball SA, Diamond sporting events. SA is limited in such Sports SA and Adelaide Baseball which infrastructure with Adelaide Oval being went towards upgrading the baseball the only world-class facility with a field at West Beach. Immediately large spectator capacity. This creates after the upgrades, the Lotte Giants, a challenges when the state seeks to team from Korea, secure major sport or entertainment planned a trip to Adelaide and trained at events but must work around cricket the facility. and Australian Rules Football (AFL) The Lotte Giants brought a total games and seasons. travelling group of approximately 80 including athletes, managers, coaches

9 The 2019 Santos Tour Down Under Sport diplomacy and business delivered 826 hours of television Sport is a universal language that can broadcast and was screened across provide important connections with 190 territories, with a potential reach trade and investment partners and of 1.24 billion, which included 33.5 help to grow SA’s prosperity. As a city, hours of domestic coverage. The 2019 Adelaide has a great deal to offer elite Superloop Adelaide 500 was broadcast teams as a daily training environment via Fox Sports and Network 10 to a or camp venue with great weather, live audience of more than 2.4 million. affordable living and easy transport. The media value of the Santos Tour With Queensland currently considering Down Under and Superloop Adelaide a bid for the 2032 Olympic and 500 was $230 million and $116 Paralympic Games, now is the time to million respectively, highlighting the consider the elite training facilities that opportunity these events can provide in could attract visiting nations to Adelaide. promoting and marketing the state. Population growth and liveability Well-located infrastructure is another In 2019, the Global Liveability Index rated catalyst for visitation by teams, Adelaide the 10th best city in the world to athletes and fans alike, making it a live, with Melbourne ranked second and key driver of the economic benefits Ebenezer Place, Adelaide third. SA, and more specifically South Australian Tourism Commission delivered through event attendance. Adelaide, has many advantages in /Ian Routledge The relocation of AFL from AAMI terms of its liveability as a safe, attractive Stadium to Adelaide Oval has resulted and affordable city. in attendance growth amongst both South Australian residents and a High-quality infrastructure that greater portion of travelling interstate enables structured and unstructured Local Sport Grants Program tourists. This is thanks to the facility’s participation in sport and recreation has already generated iconic nature, central location and activities is an important contributor million proximity to other tourism activities. to liveability. With a State Government focus on the growth of nine key in project The State Government also industries including space, energy and $42 outcomes understands the importance of mining and defence, we will have the recreational infrastructure to support employment opportunities to reverse activities such as walking, cycling, the migration trends of young people horse riding, canoeing, scuba diving moving interstate, as well as attracting and snorkelling and has invested a greater number of overseas migrants. $11.8 million towards natural assets including walking paths and trails For international students, quality across the Fleurieu Peninsula and places to play and perform are Glenthorne National Park. The South important considerations when Australian Government’s Parks 2025: choosing where to study. As an Our Parks future initiative will drive example, five of the most popular eco-tourism and economic prosperity activities in China are running, by ensuring these assets are accessible, basketball, football, table tennis and high-quality and well promoted locally, badminton. Adelaide offers an amazing nationally and internationally. array of running opportunities with endless flat land and coastal ground. There is also a strong need to target Although table tennis and badminton sporting competitions in different are relatively minor in SA, there is an markets that may have greater flow- opportunity to strategically locate new on benefits. For example, attracting indoor facilities on or near university international college events which grounds which could lead to students draw large crowds of people who are permanently moving to SA. looking for a different level or type of sport to watch.

10 Adelaide South Australian Tourism Commission/Joshua Primiero

Education benefits from Education Media, broadcast rights sport participation equates to Participation in sport results in and sponsorship improved education outcomes with Professional Australian sport billion measurable economic benefits. competes on a global scale, with annually Students who participate in sport are media outlets and sporting bodies found to perform better at school who stream sports matches on TV $5 and online. This is a big business and stay in education longer. These education outcomes lead to an that attracts a significant worldwide economic benefit of approximately viewing audience, bringing revenue $5 billion annually.5 from broadcast rights and lucrative sponsorship deals. Sporting infrastructure contributes to these Health benefits from sport economic drivers by facilitating the participation equates to quality of sport and the size of crowds, billion which enhances the credibility of the product and drives the demand of annually $29 viewing audiences.

5 BCG (2017) Intergenerational Review of Australian Sport 2017

11 Super-Drome, Adelaide Source: ORSR

12 Health benefits care cost for an active person was A good example of the social benefits $2,587 compared with $4,211 for an that come from investment in sporting Obesity is a growing national and inactive person. Professor Eckermann infrastructure is the Copper Coast international concern that is linked calculated that just a 5% decrease Sport and Leisure Centre (SLC) which to increased levels of preventable in the proportion of inactive South was upgraded and re-opened in 2018 disease and mortality and comes at a Australian adults will save $111.3 following a $10.3 million investment significant cost, both personally and to million annually. from State and Commonwealth the healthcare system. These issues Governments, local schools, are particularly relevant for children, Social benefits businesses, clubs and the sale of with over 80% not getting enough Sporting clubs invite social connection community assets. physical activity and 27% aged 5 to for people of every age. For example, 17 being overweight or obese. The Centre is in Kadina which has a football clubs are three times more population of 4,500 and services a wider There is a growing rate of diagnosed useful for developing social networks regional community of 14,200. The SLC mental health conditions in Australia, than work, education or other is also used by schools, kindergartens, and an expanding body of evidence community group networks.6 Social pre-schools and healthcare providers suggesting that physical exercise builds connectedness has a positive impact and provides for exercise classes, individual and community resilience, on mental health with members of conferences and exhibitions. improves sleep, reduces stress and sporting clubs giving greater social The Social and Economic Benefit Cost symptoms of mental health conditions support to other members than through Analysis Tool developed by KPMG such as depression and anxiety. The net any other social networks. value of health benefits stemming from was used to analyse the benefits of Public speaking, problem solving, participation in sport is approximately this project which were calculated at decision-making, conflict resolution, $29 billion annually. Benefits from $1.33 for every $1 invested. Surveyed and engaging with people from CALD participating in recreation activities are members feel they are more active backgrounds are valuable life skills additional to this estimate. since the redevelopment with many people also learn from engaging 50% stating they are moderately Research by Professor Simon with a local sporting club. more active and 20% stating they Eckermann in 2019 illustrated that are significantly more active. active South Australian adults are less likely to utilise public health services in

terms of frequency and extent of care. 6 La Trobe University Centre for Sport and Social Impact for AFL Victoria (2015) Value of a Community It also stated that the annual health Football Club

Santos Tour Down Under 2019, Fleurieu Peninsula South Australian Tourism Commission/Chris Auld

13 3 What we learned

Consultation • Low-cost or no-cost opportunities In developing the Plan, we carried such as open space, playgrounds, out significant consultation with outdoor gym equipment, bike paths local councils, sport and recreation and cycling trails are popular. organisations and the wider • Synthetic surfaces and line marking community. are needed to increase frequency Key feedback provided via an online and use. survey demonstrated the following • Infrastructure that supports active insights: travel such as walking and cycling • People are more interested in trails is important. participating in unstructured physical • There is a perception of inequity activities. between the provision of and support • Parks, reserves, walking trails, paths for infrastructure in regional areas and playing fields are considered compared to metropolitan areas. important. • The provision of infrastructure needs • Indoor facilities are viewed as the to be tied in with transport options. largest gap in provision. • Schools offer an opportunity to • Social aspects of sport and recreation provide increased accessibility and are important. provision.

• Poor facility condition is considered • Inclusion of technological elements the largest barrier to entry for is needed. participation, with location and • Non-sport related activities should be distance closely following. catered for at multi-use facilities.

• Regional people indicated that • A well-functioning, sustainable facility distance is a bigger barrier than is more than its physical provision (i.e. metropolitan people. governance, systems and processes).

• Safe, high-quality, appropriate, well- Full details on the consultation can maintained and operated facilities be found at www.orsr.sa.gov.au attract and retain participants and members.

• Physical facilities and infrastructure are critical for the survival of clubs.

• There is a lack of facilities that include and cater for all members of the community.

• There needs to be more multi-purpose facilities that support organised sport and unstructured activities.

14 Bay Sheffield 2016, Adelaide South Australian Tourism Commission/James Elsby

Hermann Gass Bird Sanctuary, Murray River South Australian Tourism Commission/John Montesi

15 4 Identified priorities

We could better position Opportunities for further development Across all levels of sport and recreation, ourselves to leverage and consideration: from grassroots to elite, many projects were submitted through the opportunities in order to • New national and international consultation process, each at varying maximise the best outcomes standard arenas for indoor sport (e.g. levels of preparedness and categorised for SA. This requires the basketball and netball) and a stadium in the following way: recognition of the contribution for field sport (e.g. football and rugby) sport and recreation make would bring our facilities up to a Ready to proceed / near ready: to businesses, jobs, tourism, world-class standard. The location, Projects have completed or almost health, education, transport age and condition of the current completed the required planning work infrastructure, environment facilities are not ideal. and are ready to be considered for investment. The alignment of these and human services. • Upgrades to several standard state projects to this Plan will vary. facilities will extend their lifespan and elevate them to modern standards Planning/ business case development: following a period of minimal Projects require further planning maintenance and improvement. work before they can be considered for investment. • Improvements in access to green spaces in built up communities Concept stage: Projects are in the across the state would increase early stages of planning and are not community use. ready for investment.

• Better resourcing to help state While several projects are ready to sporting associations plan, deliver be considered, the fluidity of the and sustain local and regional Plan means they could be overtaken infrastructure, especially around by emerging projects as they are multiple use indoor facilities. scoped out. This gives the opportunity for private investors and other It is important to note that the projects stakeholders to engage and contribute submitted for consideration represent financially to help and progress the sport and recreation infrastructure different projects. priorities at a moment in time. Project planning will continue following the finalisation of the Plan along with the negotiations with potential funding partners, meaning the production of a prioritised list is simply not possible. An appropriate level of planning and due diligence must be undertaken before a project can be considered and will be assessed against a clear Investment Decision Making Framework. The ability of a proponent to secure additional investment may mean priorities change; we need to be nimble and respond to opportunities as they arise.

16 Memorial Drive, Adelaide Source: Tennis SA

17 Major Arenas Facilities of national significance able to host international sporting competitions and events.

We have identified the following projects for further development and consideration of business cases in the future. The ability to proceed with projects (both major arenas and state facilities) will be dependant on economic opportunities and financial capacity of government. Infrastructure SA Memorial Drive Stage 2 will play an important role in The Memorial Drive Tennis Centre is the providing independent advice to state’s premier tennis facility thanks to the State Government on potential the recent $10 million redevelopment. major projects. A new roof transformed the precinct while retaining the site’s heritage Inner City Stadium aspects. This redevelopment resulted A facility or facilities, centrally in the attraction of the Adelaide located and able to host any International tournament, with media combination of court sport, field reports praising the success of the SA Aquatic and Leisure Centre sport, convention and entertainment inaugural event. The night sessions on Opened in 2011, this is SA’s premier events would enhance SA’s ability to the last three days were sold out and competition and recreation pool. attract and retain international events, securing the Davis Cup tie between The facility currently has 1.1 million conventions and concerts. Australia and Brazil was another visits per year, and now requires mid- significant outcome as a result of The Adelaide Oval spectator experience life investment. This project involves the redevelopment. demonstrates the associated benefits an asset replacement program, centre of positioning a sporting facility in an In order to retain the Adelaide redevelopment, carpark upgrade, entertainment precinct, improving International, attract additional installation of a security access control the overall match day experience international level tennis contests system and the development of elite and providing significant economic and provide a high-quality training training facilities. benefits to nearby businesses. Apart environment for tennis athletes, from Adelaide Oval and Memorial Drive, further work is required. Key features Adelaide has no other major sporting of a potential development include facilities that are accessible by public increased seating capacity, areas transport or next to the central business for event activities, general function district, which are key requirements spaces, digital infrastructure, training and considerations for the new and recovery facilities and potential multipurpose facility. improved access to the Adelaide Oval precinct.

Image top: SA Aquatic and Leisure Centre, Adelaide Source: ORSR Image below: Adelaide Oval, Adelaide Tourism Commission/Russell Millard

18 SA Athletics Stadium, Adelaide Source: ORSR

19 Netball SA Stadium, Adelaide Source: ORSR

State Facilities Facilities of state significance lead up to the 2000 Olympics the SA Athletics Stadium able to host national sporting Prepared to Win program actively As the premier athletic facility in SA, competitions and events. targeted countries to use Adelaide this project would involve a service as a training base. With Queensland road, carpark and traffic management considering a bid for the 2032 Olympics improvement, installation of a South Australian Sports a similar opportunity exists, alongside security access control system, track Institute (SASI) the opportunity to attract professionals replacement, function room, change SA makes a significant annual from key trading partners, particularly rooms, warm up area, grandstand investment as part of its commitment those from Asia. upgrades, installation of solar to develop high performance pathways Through quality infrastructure and panels, increased seating capacity, for talented South Australians through investment in the right technology and turf management and drainage SASI programs. SASI’s facilities people, SASI will help foster the next improvements. have been developed in an generation of elite athletes. Success opportunistic and ad-hoc way, Netball SA Stadium at an elite level boosts participation resulting in disjointed facilities that This project involves the redevelopment in sport. An example of this is the are now aged. Its facilities are below of the current site so it is better placed increase in participation that was the benchmark of contemporary to manage the increasing number of experienced in England after the integrated sports institute facilities patrons making use of the facilities, and successful 2012 London Olympics and in other states and are inadequate to to optimise its use as an indoor and Paralympics Games from both an event meet future standards and demands. outdoor stadium. The project will also and medal perspective. A purpose-built sports institute facility modernise the facility to replace ageing located in a sporting precinct would assets such as the flooring, entry area, address this need. Thebarton Oval is in the City of external courts, seating and services along with improved connectivity to the The development of a multi-sport West Torrens. The facility is the adjacent athletics facility. precinct and new home for SASI would administration and training base and serve as a hub for elite and community grand final venue for the Adelaide athletes to train and compete as well Football League. The redevelopment as broader community use for other project will deliver upgraded recreational activities. facilities and amenities including the realignment and upgrade of the World-class, elite, daily training oval to AFL women’s standards, new facilities create an opportunity to lighting for AFL broadcasting and attract universities, professional teams the installation of a second oval, and countries to train in Adelaide, gymnasium and recovery facilities. generating economic benefits. In the

20 Regional Facilities Local Level Facilities Active Recreation

Facilities of regional significance Facilities able to cater for Facilities where the primary able to cater for state sporting local level sporting competition purpose is to support community competitions and events. and events. use rather than organised or competitive sports.

A significant number of submitted Regional facility projects were Projects ranged in readiness for projects fall into the category of submitted for consideration, with a implementation. Most projects had regional or local facilities. Given the number having done the planning and no funding secured, while others were vast majority of these facilities are preparatory work and others either part-funded. local government owned, there is in the planning phase or the initial Active recreation projects were considerable fluidity in priority based on concept stage. Most projects had no submitted for consideration. readiness, in particular co-investment funding secured, while others were No funding has been secured for from council or other stakeholders. part-funded. these projects at this time. A range of local facility projects were submitted for consideration, with projects at various stages of readiness.

State Hockey Centre, Adelaide Source: ORSR

21 Facility Aspirations In some instances, issues were identified that require a solution, but a specific solution (i.e. a project) was not identified and submitted as part of the consultation process.

Ice sport The Adelaide located at Thebarton is the home of ice sport including hockey, skating and broomball, and caters for recreational skating. This facility is privately owned and under lease to a not-for-profit manager until 2025. It is however, not fit for purpose as it is aged and at the end of its useful life. A solution is required by 2025 or South Australians will have no access to competition or recreational ice sport activity. While ice sport proposals were submitted, all required significant additional work.

Image left: Kangaroo Island Cup, Kangaroo Island Extreme and esports Kangaroo Island Racing Club/Dean Willis The growth of both extreme sports and esports is well documented, but is currently relatively unsophisticated in SA. A proactive approach to planning Equestrian facilities It has previously been the home of and development of suitable facilities Several proposals were received in this the and Basketball could see the state attract a different area and SA does not currently have SA and is the current home of the cohort of people to be active and a state equestrian facility. Partners . With the move of secure hosting of significant varied across the projects and ranged the Adelaide 36ers to the Entertainment global events. from equestrian, polo, pony club, Centre, the owners of the facility are horse racing and tertiary institutions. currently exploring selling the venue. Baseball The establishment of one state centre This means that an alternative ‘home’ is is exploring options to is supported however stakeholders required for community basketball and develop a stand-alone home facility for need to resolve which facility will best for the Adelaide Lightning. the club and has engaged a consultant service the community and deliver In terms of the Adelaide Lightning, to identify site options and develop a economic benefit. irrespective of the owners’ desire to sell, master plan and business case Titanium Security Arena has a capacity for consideration. A home for basketball of 8,000 and in the 2019-20 season Titanium Security Arena is a privately the average Lightning attendance was owned venue located in Findon and has 1,000. A smaller, high-quality boutique for many years served as the ‘home of showcourt would be a more appealing basketball’ in SA. prospect for players, spectators and television viewers.

22 Athletics Aquatic facilities The SA Athletics Stadium is the only Many SA swimming pools, particularly full synthetic track at present, with in regional areas, were built in the Bridgestone Reserve in Salisbury 1950s. These facilities are now ageing currently being built and Port Adelaide and in need of major upgrades or with a partially synthetic track. Given complete replacement if they are the gap and current facility locations, to remain open. Due to increasing a track in the southern suburbs populations there is an identified and strategic regional areas could demand for aquatic facilities within the be explored. City of Onkaparinga and District Council of Mount Barker areas. There is also an Indoor arenas increasing demand on facilities to have For a number of court-based sports Image top: A.M. Ramsey Regatta Course, Adelaide the appropriate inclusive amenities Source: ORSR (e.g. volleyball), a sport specific project e.g. ramps and chair lifts. Image below: , Adelaide was not necessarily identified however Source: ORSR a general need for increased access Environmental sustainability was. It has been identified that there It is recognised that changes in climate is a specific need for basketball in the conditions need to be considered south and inner south and generally in terms of the potential impact across the metropolitan areas. To cater on sport and recreation facilities. for the needs of people interested in Environmentally sustainable design may basketball and other court sports, include a number of energy efficiency future developments should feature initiatives including solar panels, water a minimum of four courts. conservation and management, effective waste management, consideration of AFL and cricket ovals landscaping to reduce environmental The South Australian National Football impact and future proofing sites to League and the South Australian cater for new technologies (e.g. power Cricket Association have worked sources in car parks for electric cars). collaboratively to identify facility Given community engagement findings upgrade requirements for the State associated with desired indoor facilities level facilities they share. Costing and their ability to cater for potential circa $93.8 million, these upgrades climate impacts, these multi-use facility are required to meet the needs of types will continue to be explored both games in terms of infrastructure where relevant. to support talent pathways and diversification of the game, particularly female participation.

23 5 Final considerations

Planning Closing Statement A key theme highlighted in the Sport and recreation are critical to the development of the Plan was the overall growth and prosperity of SA need for greater integrated planning and the new foundations cannot be across all stakeholder groups. As a subpar. In order to place SA strongly on result, ORSR needs to take a more the path to becoming a leader in this proactive role in facilitating this sector we need strong business and planning before a grant application community partnerships. or project proposal is submitted for Sport and recreation infrastructure investment consideration. ORSR will cannot be delivered by State work with applicants to determine what Government alone. The best and is required depending on the size and most cost-effective outcomes will be scale of the project. achieved when facilities are considered Decision making framework and delivered with contributions Through this process ORSR has from multiple stakeholders involving developed a set of Guiding Principles collaborative efforts from public and for Investment Decision Making. private investment. These principles will be readily available The private sector is a key contributor and will provide transparency around in realising the full potential of the how decisions are made. As part Plan. Private investors and entities of the planning process ORSR will can contribute towards development support applicants to respond to these and maintenance of sports facilities, principles, once again based on the size including the establishment of modern and the scale of the project. stadiums and training centres.

Grants Given the ever-changing sporting The Plan only ever intended to explore landscape and emerging opportunities projects in excess of $2 million however around the delivery of sport and the it is important to note that many regional business of sport, the Plan must and local facility projects would remain flexible and nimble. This be less than this. Projects under will ensure we are open to new $2 million will be supported through the opportunities as they arise, so that government’s formal grant programs. we can continue to engage South Planning support will still be provided Australians to be active while delivering and the investment framework will be a wide range of infrastructure and consistent, albeit modified. other positive sport and recreation opportunities in our state.

This will place our state in an ideal position to use our strengths to collaborate with each other locally and deliver outcomes that will drive economic benefit and a healthier community.

24 Memorial Drive, Adelaide Source: Getty Images