JOINT STATEMENT

Athletics Tasmania and Little Athletics Tasmania

Domain track renewal marks important step forward for Tasmanian athletics

Athletics Tasmania and Little Athletics Tasmania welcome the City of Hobart’s approximately $1.2 million investment to renew the synthetic track at the Domain Athletics Centre , with works expected to begin in early November.

The Domain is the home of athletics in Tasmania. Children take their first steps in the sport there, state and national athletes train and compete there, and it is the venue that has brought World Athletics Continental Tour competition to Hobart through the Hobart Track Classic.

The current surface has reached the end of its life. Replacing it keeps the venue's World Athletics certification and means Tasmanian athletes can keep training and competing on a track that meets national and international standards.

Both organisations welcome the renewal as a significant first step, while recognising the need for continued investment.

Good facilities are the foundation of participation, athlete development and major events. Over the past 12 months, Athletics Tasmania and Little Athletics Tasmania have carried out a statewide review of athletics facilities and developed a whole-of-sport facilities strategy. The strategy sets out a clear roadmap for the years ahead, identifying where investment is most needed so that athletes, clubs and Little Athletics centres across Tasmania have access to safe, fit-for-purpose facilities.

Athletics Tasmania and Little Athletics Tasmania look forward to working with the City of Hobart, local councils, and the Tasmanian and Australian Governments to deliver the strategy's priorities, so that every Tasmanian who takes up athletics can access quality facilities close to home.

Both organisations know the construction timing will disrupt athletes, clubs, schools and event organisers during the season. They are working closely with the City of Hobart on interim training and competition arrangements and will keep members updated as details are confirmed.

Quote to be attributed to Athletics Tasmania President Damon Thomas:

“The Domain is where many Tasmanians first discover athletics and where our best athletes test themselves against the world. We welcome the City of Hobart’s $1.2 million investment: a new track will secure the venue’s future and give athletes the surface they deserve. This is an important first step. Our shared facilities strategy now gives councils and governments a clear path to improve tracks and facilities across Tasmania, so a child’s opportunity to take part and progress in athletics does not depend on where they live.”

Quote to be attributed to Little Athletics Tasmania President Amanda Robertson:

“Little Athletics Tasmania welcomes the HCC investment in the Domain Athletics Track.   The upgrade to the Domain Athletics track will ensure a safe and suitable surface for our Little Athletes to commence their athletic journey.  This resurface does mean a disruption for Little Athletes competition during this season and we thank our families for their patience while this important redevelopment occurs.  We look forward to future investments in our facilities to make them safe and accessible for all.  

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Media contact:

Glen Taylor

Chief Executive

Little Athletics Tasmania & Athletics Tasmania

03 6230 0900