Wool pavilion refurbished and accessible amenities constructed at Rydal Showground
Construction has been completed on accessible amenities and the restoration of the Rydal Showground's wool pavilion after more than $1 million worth of investment by the NSW Government.
Crown Lands provided a $810,419 grant under its Showground Stimulus Funding Program to refurbish the historic wool pavilion, located in the picturesque town of Rydal.
The restoration of the wool pavilion was a significant undertaking. The structure was almost 100 years old and an important piece of local history. In recent years, however, the pavilion had fallen into disrepair and was no longer suitable to hold public events. The corrugated iron roof was in poor condition and the external timber had significant weather and termite damage.
To be restored to its former glory, the old wool shed was rebuilt, with a new compacted earth floor, corrugated iron roof, and rough sawn timber posts to improve the pavilion's structural integrity. The project took considerable steps to ensure the pavilion honoured the area's bush heritage, preserving
local history for generations to come.
The new pavilion will be used at showtime and for weddings, mountain bike club meetings, poultry displays and local events, and will also help Rydal attract more regional shows and gymkhanas.
The pavilion is being officially opened on Thursday with Rydal Showground's 97-year-old chief wool steward Ian Litchfield, who has undertaken the role since 1960, in attendance.
In addition to the wool pavilion, the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund (CRIF) also provided $240,083 for construction of an accessible amenities block. The new block includes five female and four male bathrooms, an accessible shower and a baby change table.
Previously, visitors would have to travel 23 kilometres for the nearest accessible amenities making it extremely difficult for people with mobility issues to attend popular events such as the annual gymkhana, Daffodils at Rydal or other events.
Rydal Showground Crown Land manager secretary Sarah Martin:
"It will be fantastic to show off the new and improved wool pavilion, especially during the upcoming Rydal Show in February. Visitors will see that the new pavilion is not just a place to shear sheep, but a multifunctional venue that's at the heart of our community.
"However, you can't enjoy a good show without access to a loo. Everyone deserves to have a great day out, so I am so pleased that we will now be able to cater to all our visitors' needs."
Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:
"Showgrounds are multi-use facilities at the heart of regional communities so this investment to help rejuvenate Rydal Showground will enrich the lives of everybody who visits.
"The refurbishment of the wool pavilion and construction of an accessible amenity block will help Rydal host more community events, helping foster a strong and resilient community."