DEC upgrade set to commence as JackJumpers march into NBL
Tasmania’s new NBL team has been unveiled as the JackJumpers, as the redevelopment of the Derwent Entertainment Centre is set to get underway.
Hobart’s Wilkinson’s Point and the DEC are set to undergo a bold transformation after the Tasmanian Planning Commission approved the site area plan.
The approval has paved the way for the development of a major retail precinct adjacent to the DEC, with expressions of interest now being sought.
Work on the redevelopment of the Derwent Entertainment Centre will begin next month ahead of JackJumper’s entry into the NBL for the 2021-22 Season.
The upgrade of the DEC is being funded by a $68.5 million package by the Tasmanian Government including a $20 million four-court indoor multi-sport facility, with work set to commence this month.
The DEC upgrade is stage one of the overall development, with stage two of the development to be a major retail precinct adjacent to the DEC, which is already seeking expressions of interest from prospective retailers.
The third and final stage will be the future Wilkinsons Point hotel, retail and restaurant development on the waterfront behind the DEC.
Stage two and three will be funded by NBL owner and executive chairman Larry Kestelman to the tune of more than $150 million.
“The DEC will be transformed into a world class venue for Tasmania, hosting NBL games in front of over 4,000 fans and feature first class corporate facilities, state of the art audio-visual experiences and brand new amenities for families,” NBL Owner and Executive Chairman Larry Kestelman said.
“The new DEC will also host concerts featuring performers from Australia and around the world in front of over 8,000 people as well as conventions and other major events for Tasmania.”
The site area plan approved by the Tasmanian Planning Commission also opens the way for a $150 million retail, restaurant and hotel development.
Almost 10,000 public votes were received, with the JackJumpers vying with Tridents as the last two names left from a final five short-listed, with Tridents initially believed to have been the frontrunner.
“Synonymous with Tasmania, the JackJumpers will be proud, bold and fearless. The JackJumpers will show that you don’t need to be the biggest to be the best and to drive fear into your opponents,” said club chief executive Simon Brookhouse.
“The JackJumpers logo covers all corners of the state and embodies Tasmania’s challenger spirit and passion.
“Our green and gold colours pay homage to Tasmania’s rich history and landscape.
“The JackJumpers are energetic, fierce and ready to attack and defend with force well beyond their size.
“Like Tasmania itself, the JackJumpers will be unforgettable and a team all Tasmanians can embrace.”
