Mount Gambier’s Wulanda Recreation and Convention Centre has been officially opened.
Wulanda, meaning ‘enjoy or cherish’ in Bunganditj, is a gathering place in Mount Gambier to participate in sports, recreation, community activities and events.
It will specifically provide quality aquatics as well as flexible sporting and event spaces for the Mount Gambier community.
The Australian Government has contributed $15 million towards building the centre. The South Australian Government’s contribution was $10 million, while the Grant District Council contributed $350,000.
Throughout the build, Wulanda has benefited local trades and contractors by more than $22 million. This spend does not account for the corresponding investment in hospitality and accommodation venues by visiting businesses and services.
The centre swung open its doors to the community for its preview weekend on 16 December, with more than 4,000 people taking part in tours and free swimming sessions.
In its first 60 days, Wulanda has hosted the 2023 South Australia Country Swimming Championships, signed up 1,900 members and attracted almost 15,000 casual visits.
Quotes attributable to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
“I’m pleased to see the result of this Australian Government investment and immediate benefits the facility has provided for the local community with sporting events already being staged.
“It’s easy to see that Wulanda will bring the Mount Gambier community together for sporting and other events for generations to come.
Quotes attributable to South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas:
“So much of the modern world revolves around screens and devices, so it’s more important than ever that we invest in facilities which enable people to socialise, exercise, and to find entertainment, connection and community.
“It’s for that reason, I’m very pleased to see the State Government’s $10 million investment in Wulanda come to fruition.
“This is already a valuable economic and social asset for the Limestone Coast community, and will remain so for generations to come.”
Quotes attributable to Mayor of Mount Gambier Lynette Martin OAM:
“I’ve spoken to many residents who expressed their excitement about Wulanda and thanked the council for their bold vision to build a state-of-the-art facility that will benefit the community for generations.
“Many people who spoke to me are so passionate and proud that they live in a city that has built Wulanda, a centre with the ability to transform Mount Gambier.
“Building Wulunda has been a long journey for the community, and their patience and trust in the council, designers, and builders have been rewarded with an incredible building.
“Mount Gambier has never seen this level of community investment before, which will be transformative for the community.”
Quotes attributable to Olympic medallist and world champion Madi Wilson:
“It was amazing to be invited to open the 2023 South Australia Country Swimming Championships at Wulanda.
“To see this facility – it’s absolutely incredible. You are so lucky to be able to swim in a facility like this – it is definitely closing the gap between country and city.”
Media Contact:
MINISTER KING – LYNDAL CURTIS 0497 847 212PREMIER MALINAUSKAS – NICK HARMSEN 0422 888 991MAYOR MARTIN – JAMIE McDONALD 08 8721 2555
