Ice skating in Port Macquarie sounds too good to be true, however a local TAFE student has started a campaign to construct an ice rink in town.
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Vincent McKinnon's petition to 'Get Port Macquarie an Ice Skating Rink' is off thin ice and gaining favour, with 229 signatures pledging their support for a winter wonderland.
Mr McKinnon, a current TAFE student said the idea would help break the ice for the town's locals and tourists as well as provide a popular new location for school visits.
"The nearest ice skating rink is in Coffs Harbour at the Big Banana, a good two hour drive in fast moving traffic," he said.
"It would definitely be a boost for tourism if we had a map of Port Macquarie with an ice rink stamp on it.
"The only worry is that it's going to be a waste of money but there are also synthetic plating mats (made of plastic interlocking panels) from America as an option and they are cheaper.
"I've already had two offers for a coach, teacher and someone who was in an ice hockey team."
A rink in Port Macquarie could theoretically be used for a number of activities including casual skating, ice dancing, figure skating, speed skating, ringette and ice hockey.
It would also coincide with a focus on local activities in the town alongside a proposed entertainment complex earmarked for the corner of Park and Warlters streets.
Mr McKinnon said he will present the petition to Port Macquarie-Hastings Council for consideration. The next ordinary meeting is scheduled for March 20 in Wauchope.
He likened the new skating rink idea to Port Macquarie's Fantasy Glades, a small rainforest theme park ceased operating on April 28, 2002.
"It's too hot and there is nothing to do in Port Macquarie for kids or adults since the closure of Port Macquarie's famous Fantasy Glades," he said.
"Tourists would love it as there's not much to do for tourists in Port Macquarie and schools from around the Hastings could use the facility, have lessons and compete."
Suggested locations through the petition include the previous Bunnings Warehouse site or previous Food for Less store.
To sign the petition click here.
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