Multipurpose Equestrian Centre opens

Forbes is set to become a hub for equestrian events, with the Multipurpose Equestrian Centre (MEC) at Forbes officially opening on Tuesday 26 November.

The MEC has been designed to host equestrian events of all formats, from pony club sessions right through to rodeos and camp drafts and will also be a venue for other non-horse related events.

Conveniently located near the Forbes Racecourse and showground facilities, the MEC also has the potential to be a rest and exercise stopover point for horse transport up and down the Newell Highway.

Completion of the MEC is the first phase of a larger master plan for an equestrian precinct that has been the result of extensive consultation.

Forbes Shire Council Mayor, Phyllis Miller OAM, said the MEC would make Forbes a highly sought-after destination for equestrian events which will boost the local economy.

“Sports tourism has been identified in our Tourism Plan as a key economic driver for us and we are sure this venue will attract equestrian riders and events from all over NSW and the Country,” she said.

“We are excited by the potential of this facility - not just for equestrian sport but also for other events.”

With its steel roof structure, the MEC is an 80m x 60m undercover sand arena, that features water tanks, access to potable water, lighting, wireless access points and a wireless sound system.

The arena is fenced, and temporary fencing panels are available to suit different needs for a variety of events.

The precinct features ample camping and parking space, and access roads designed for vehicles of all sizes, including large trucks.

The project was funded by a $3.6 million grant under round one of the NSW Government’s Multi- Sport Community Facility Funding program.

The first event at the MEC will be held by Australian Extreme Obstacle Racing on Saturday 30 November and Sunday 1 December.

To book the MEC for an event please contact Forbes Shire Council on (02) 6850 2300.

Image caption: Forbes Shire Council staff, councillors and local equestrian user groups celebrate the opening of the Multipurpose Equestrian Centre on Tuesday 26 November.