The Hon Rod Kemp was Minister for the Arts and Sport from Friday 23 November 2001 to Tuesday 30 January 2007. This site is available for archival purposes only.

Opening of new extension to AIS diving complex

The Federal Minister for the Arts and Sport, Senator Rod Kemp, today opened the new extension to the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) Diving dry land training facility at the Sleeman Centre in Chandler, Queensland.

The 270 square metre extension is part of the Australian Government’s $70 million funding package for the redevelopment of the AIS. It will enable dry land training for synchronised diving and will provide improved dry land training conditions during hot weather.

‘With this $475,000 extension, the AIS Diving program can lay claim to having arguably one of the best elite training facilities in the world,’ Senator Kemp said.

‘The extension to the Institute’s dry land training facility will see upgrades to ventilation and insulation enabling greater flexibility in training times during the hot summer months in Queensland.

‘This will enhance the preparation of our elite divers and their ability to develop their skills to perform at the highest international level.’

AIS Director Professor Peter Fricker said the unique diving facility in Chandler would allow Australian divers to remain at the forefront in synchronised diving.

‘Australia won a silver medal in synchronised diving at the recent world championships in Canada, which followed up the three bronze medals won in synchronised diving at last year’s Athens Olympics,’ Professor Fricker said.

‘Everyone realises that for our athletes to be internationally competitive in the fierce world of sport they must be provided with world class services and facilities.

‘Thanks to the support of the Federal Government, the AIS Diving dry training facility is world class, and as a result our Australian divers are enjoying tremendous international success.’

AIS scholarship holder Chantelle Newbery became the first Australian diver in 80 years to win Olympic gold with a stunning victory in the ten-metre event at the Athens Olympics.

Australian divers won one gold, one silver and four bronze medals in Athens.

The Australian Government invests around $1,247,000 each year in Australian diving.

*The AIS is a major division of the Australian Sports Commission.

BRISBANE
21 September 2005

Media contact: Richard Howes (ASC) 0408 662 123, Adrian Chippindale 0407 208 743