Woodward Action Sports Centre Heads to Hills
American company Woodward, a global leader in action sports experiences, has just announced it is expanding overseas to Australia and will be building its first international facility adjacent to Castle Towers.
It will feature a state-of-the-art design and offer a range of programs catering to all ages and ability levels from beginners to Olympians.
Developed with support from the NSW Government, Woodward Sydney will have purpose-built premises over three levels with a building footprint of 3,650m.
The NSW Government has provided $1.8 million towards the project through a grant from the Greater Sydney Sports Facility Fund. The Development application is currently going through council.
Originally founded in 1970 in Pennsylvania, Woodward has grown to be the global leader in action sports progression with multiple destinations across the US. To date, 48 Olympic medals have been won by former Woodward athletes and guest pros as well as 125 medals in other professional contests.
Woodward President Chris “Gunny” Gunnarson said: “Woodward Sydney will be our most innovative concept to date – and a model for future Urban Centres.”
Woodward Sydney will have a variety of zones including climbing and bouldering walls, a skatepark, pump track, mini ramps, mega ramp, foam pits, spring floor, trampolines and a gym. It will also have a café, bar and event space overlooking all the action.
David Russell, Managing Director of Woodward Australia said: “The project will deliver significant social and economic benefits to the area – providing a new space for active recreation and a hub for the local community, while attracting visitors from Greater Sydney, interstate and internationally. “
Castle Hill MP Ray Williams said: “Ensuring our community has sporting infrastructure that meets its needs is a priority of mine,” Mr Williams said. “Woodward Sydney will provide a purpose-built facility for a range of sports not currently catered for in the region. Not only that, this project will also stimulate the region’s economy through increased jobs and spending at local small businesses.”
Matthew James, QIC Investment General Manager said the company was “building a transformative town centre” at Castle Towers. “The addition of Woodward’s world-leading action sports facility speaks directly to that aspiration. The fact that Woodward has selected Castle Towers for their first destination outside of the US validates our long-term vision for the region and we couldn’t be more thrilled to be partnering with them on this endeavour.”
It is hoped Woodward Sydney will open at the end of 2024.
There will be casual access passes, memberships, individual classes, multiweek programs, school PE programs, school holiday camps, birthday parties, events and competitions. Experiences and programming will also focus on the increased participation and empowerment of females in action sports.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
