LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Construction officially began today on the $65 million Dragons Community and High Performance Centre at the University of Wollongong's Innovation Campus.
The Honourable Minister for Sport, Steve Kamper, turned the first sod, marking the beginning of the building works.
Builders FDC will be working on the project, with an expected completion date of mid-2026.
Various political figures including the Federal Member for Cunningham, Alison Byrnes, the Member for Keira, Ryan Park, and the Member for Wollongong, Paul Scully, were also in attendance.
Dragons Chairman Andrew Lancaster, CEO Ryan Webb, NRL Head Coach Shane Flanagan, NRLW Head Coach Nathan Cross, Dragons Head of Female Football Samantha Bremner, NRL co-captain Clint Gutherson, and NRLW star Bobbi Law were present to witness the historic moment.
The new facility will serve as a hub for the Dragons community and high-performance programs, providing state-of-the-art training and support for players across all levels.
The construction of the Centre signifies an important step forward for the club, enhancing their ability to develop and support players in both the NRL and NRLW.
Dragons Chairman Andrew Lancaster expressed his excitement about the project, stating, "This Centre will not only benefit the players but also the wider community, providing a space for fans and supporters to engage with the club on a whole new level." CEO Ryan Webb echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the positive impact the facility will have on the future of the Dragons.
Minister Steve Kamper highlighted the significance of the Centre, stating, "This investment will not only benefit the Dragons but also the broader sporting community in Wollongong and beyond.
It is a testament to the commitment of the club to grow and develop the game."
The commencement of construction on the Dragons Community and High Performance Centre marks a new chapter for the club, as they work towards providing a world-class facility for players, staff, and fans alike.
With completion expected in mid-2026, the Centre is poised to further strengthen the Dragons' position as a leader in rugby league development and support.