Gymnastics ACT backs new facility, calls on the Government to support growth opportunity

 

Participation in gymnastics has grown steadily in the ACT, with more than 6,000 children and young people engaged in the sport each year. Across Canberra, five clubs are currently operating at or near full capacity, and hundreds of families remain on waitlists with limited access to programs.

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Without investment in new infrastructure like this opportunity presents, the ability for gymnastics to grow and to continue delivering meaningful physical activity pathways for children and youth is at risk.

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“As a foundational sport, gymnastics helps children develop the physical skills and confidence that support lifelong participation in sport and activity,” said Sam Brittlebank, CEO of Gymnastics ACT. “But right now, we’re at capacity. Without new facilities, we simply cannot welcome more participants into our sport or meet growing community demand.”

Canberra Trampoline Gymnastics Club has been shortlisted to the final stage of an ACT Government tender process for the purchase of currently vacant community land. If successful, the club is in a position to begin construction immediately on a dedicated, state-of-the-art gymnastics facility. The project is backed by the club’s sound financial position, private investment and ongoing community donations.

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This project represents a shovel-ready opportunity to deliver benefits across health, community engagement and economic recovery. It will create jobs, deliver much-needed infrastructure, and ensure more children and families can access gymnastics.

While other sports including tennis, basketball and swimming have seen major facility developments in recent years, gymnastics has not received the same level of infrastructure investment. Every ACT Government review into community sport since 2015 has identified gymnastics as a priority area for development — this project is a chance to take meaningful action.

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“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for the government to take action and ensure gymnastics is not forgotten,” said Mr Brittlebank. “Supporting this proposal isn’t just about a new facility, it’s about creating more active communities, healthier children and stronger participation in the sport.”

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Gymnastics ACT looks forward to working with the ACT Government to ensure the future of gymnastics remains strong and inclusive for the next generation.

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