Southern Cross Regional Athletics Facility

Aerial view of projected lismore athletics track

A world-class athletics precinct for the Northern Rivers

The Southern Cross Regional Athletics Facility will provide schools, athletes and communities across the region with access to modern athletics infrastructure at Southern Cross University's Lismore campus.

Supported by $3.672 million in NSW Government funding, the facility will open in 2027 and will create new opportunities for participation, education, research and community connection across the Northern Rivers.

Projected overhead view of the full athletics track

About the facility

Located on Southern Cross University's Lismore campus, the Southern Cross Regional Athletics Facility is designed to support schools, community athletics, regional sporting events and university activities. Built to World Athletics Class 2 standards, the precinct will help address a significant gap in regional sporting infrastructure while creating opportunities for participation, performance, learning and research.

The facility forms part of Southern Cross University's ongoing commitment to regional development and community wellbeing, creating a lasting asset that will benefit current and future generations. 

Projected high jumper at the Lismore Athletics Track

Facility features

The facility will include:

  • Eight-lane athletics track with ten-lane 100m sprint straight
  • SmartTracks timing and performance technology
  • Long jump and triple jump facilities
  • High jump and pole vault facilities
  • Steeplechase facilities
  • Throws areas for shot put, discus, hammer throw and javelin
  • Tiered spectator viewing areas
  • Accessible pathways with upgraded amenities and change facilities

Designed for both participation and performance, the precinct will support school carnivals, athletics training, community events and regional competitions. 

Project updates

Health

World-class athletics track coming to Lismore campus thanks to major grant boost

A group of people on a sports oval looking at the camera

Get involved

Schools and community

The Southern Cross Regional Athletics Facility has been designed to serve the broader Northern Rivers community.

Schools will benefit from access to a reliable all-weather venue for athletics carnivals and sporting activities, helping reduce disruptions caused by wet weather and providing students with access to modern athletics infrastructure closer to home.

The facility will also support athletics clubs, community organisations and regional sporting events while creating opportunities for Southern Cross University students and researchers in areas such as sport, exercise science, health and community wellbeing. 

Projected Lismore Athletics Track with school student

Partnership and opportunities

Southern Cross University is keen to connect with organisations and individuals interested in the future use and impact of the precinct.

We welcome conversations with:

  • Schools and education providers
  • Athletics and sporting organisations
  • Community groups
  • Government agencies
  • Event organisers
  • Industry and research partners

As planning for the facility's operation continues, opportunities will emerge for collaboration, participation and partnership across a range of programs and activities.

Projected image of school community on the track with an event at the restaurant

A legacy for future generations

The Southern Cross Regional Athletics Facility is part of a broader vision for the future of Southern Cross University's Lismore campus and the Northern Rivers region.

Aligned with the University's Lismore Master Plan, the project represents an investment in infrastructure that supports education, health, sport and community connection for decades to come. 

The facility is an important step in creating a precinct that brings people together through learning, participation, wellbeing and achievement.

As future opportunities emerge, Southern Cross University will continue working with government, industry, community organisations and supporters who share a commitment to the future of the region.

Projected members of the community enjoying the facilities with families