The NSW Government has committed to a new $230,000 pilot program delivered as part of the Greater Sydney 24-Hour Economy Strategy, in order to make sporting precincts more lively. 

The Sporting Precinct Activation Pilot will collaborate with several sporting codes to deliver family-friendly performances and activities at games in order to boost fan presence and engagement.

This will include before, during and after several NRL games and other sporting precincts through to July 1.

Minister for enterprise, investment and trade, Stuart Ayres, said the new pilot will increase community excitement and participation through both fan and business inclusion. 

“As we encourage our communities to get back out there, this pilot is about creating reasons for sports fans to arrive earlier and stay longer, and in doing so provide a welcome boost to local businesses, performers and artists by driving spending and supporting jobs,” said Aryes.

“From experiences including markets, local musicians, DJs and family entertainment, this targeted support aims to leverage Sydney’s reputation as a diversified 24-hour economy and make our sporting precincts more attractive both day and night,” he said. 

24-Hour economy commissioner, Michael Rodrigues, also commented: “This pilot is part of the 24-Hour Economy Strategy, which recognises that sports lovers are an integral part of the going out economy.”

“While the fixture might be the fan’s focus, offering other entertainment options alongside will reward punters for getting off the couch and to the game itself.

“Fans are already back in droves and now’s the time to improve the attendee experience,” Rodrigues said.

The pilot includes the following activities:

• Round 11, Dragons v Warriors — Concert featuring the Choirboys on Saturday, May 21 at Netstrata Jubilee Oval (Kogarah Oval)
• Round 12, Bulldogs v Dragons — Kids face painting, didgeridoo players and other live performances at Indigenous Round on Sunday, May 29 at Belmore Sports Ground
• Round 14, Wests Tigers v Sea Eagles — Big family day out with family-focused activations including pre-game activities and fun for the kids on Sunday, June 12 at Campbelltown Sports Stadium
• Round 15, Eels v Roosters — DJ set and dance party on Saturday, June 18 at CommBank Stadium (Parramatta Stadium)