Sport plays an important role in our community, through social connectivity, physical activity and improved mental wellbeing for those who partake.
Health benefits are realised as increased physical activity, reduced obesity, reduced incidence of non-communicable disease and improving mental health.
This results in avoided healthcare costs and eases pressure on the health system.
Economic benefits are generated through the creation of opportunities for events and tourism, particularly drawing participants, officials and spectators who contribute significantly to the visitor economy.
Mike Rowland, Manager of The Australian Equine and Livestock Events Centre (AELEC), and James Cooper, from The Northern Inland Academy of Sport (NIAS), joined us in the studio to talk specifically about the situation in Tamworth.