ULLADULLA gymnasts are flipping with excitement that funding has been secured for the next stage of the Dunn Lewis Centre.
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Newly elected Federal Member for Gilmore Ann Sudmalis has kept her pre-election promise, with a timeline for completing the next stage of the complex to be announced before Christmas.
The $2 million funding promise for the second stage of the youth entertainment complex, which will include a new home for the Ulladulla Gymnastic Club, was given the “golden tick” by Federal Parliament last week.
“We have been told that all election commitments have been costed and will be fully funded,” Ms Sudmalis said.
“I’m hoping a timeline for the roll-out of projects will be announced before the end of December.”
While she was unsure where the Commonwealth money would be sourced from, Ms Sudmalis said the funds would pay for the auditorium shell.
“I have been speaking with Gayle Dunn who said, once the shell is up, she would be sourcing grants from a number of sources to complete the project.
“Getting the funds for the outside was the crucial lynch pin.”
Ms Sudmalis said she would be pushing for the project to commence “sooner rather than later” as the complex was an important educational, sporting and entertainment facility for the town.
Gymnastics club trampoline coach Sean Hendry said gymnasts were keen to see the complex completed and fitted out with a sprung floor and pit area.
Club members train in the new Ulladulla High School hall, but are seeking a permanent home for more than 200 students and a range of equipment.
Mr Hendry welcomed the funding commitment and said the new complex would be specially designed for gymnastics, with equipment set up permanently.
He said while the high school hall was a great venue, it was often used for school functions and events, such as exams, which took priority and often meant gym classes had to be cancelled.
“It would be great to have the shell completed so we could apply for grants through the Department of Sport and Rec and other avenues to fit out the gymnastics centre.
“It’s great news.”
Mr Hendry said a new complex and new equipment would provide a more competitive environment for high level athletes as well as up and coming young gymnasts.
“We could host gymnastics and trampolining competitions in a fully set up gym, which would be great for Ulladulla.
“The complex could also be used by local schools for sport and other fitness groups.”
Meanwhile, Sean with his impressive moustache has raised $650 so far during his Movember challenge.
