Bellingen Youth Hub staff, volunteers and climbing enthusiasts are beyond excited this week after the completion of Bellingen’s own climbing wall. The project has received amazing support and is an incredible step in the right direction for Bellingen and surrounds.
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The concept of Bello’s Bouldering Wall was conceived by three young locals who envisioned the wall in the downstairs carpark of the Youth Hub. After the dedication of so many local parties, from builders, to climbing instructors, to the operations and marketing team, the project has come to life and is ready for this Friday’s official opening and fundraiser.
The Bellingen climbing community is especially excited about the completion of the wall. Nine-year-old local climber, Tara Tai has been climbing since she was just 22-months-old and placed first in the state sport climbing lead titles earlier this year.
“Climbing is like a form of meditation,” Tara said.
“With the Bello wall, I can train all the time and get stronger so I can work on my weaknesses. I am excited because I will be able to hang out with my friends, and climb different set of climbs which have been set by other climbers.”
Jacob Hawkshaw, 12, another talented young local climber who competed in the national lead titles this year, is very enthusiastic about the opening of the wall.
“Climbing is awesome and it will help make climbing accessible to people in Bellingen,” Jacob said.
Excitingly, one of Australia’s best climbers, Angie Scarth-Johnson, 12, will attend the official Bouldering Wall opening, which will be held this Friday at the Hub from 5pm. A barbecue will also be held and following there’s a movie starting at 7pm in the Bellingen Memorial Hall. All funds raised will go to the ongoing maintenance of the community wall.
Local climber and marketing co-ordinator for the project, Bonnie Dalrymple said, “the opening night will be followed by a fundraiser which is a local screening of the celebrated climbing movie, Reel Rock 11.
“The Reel Rock films are fascinating and really well made. You definitely don’t have to be a climber to enjoy them.”
Parents are asked to keep in mind that Reel Rock 11 has an M rating.
Tickets for the fundraiser are $15 per adult and $8 per child. They can be purchased from the Youth Hub or on the door at the Memorial Hall on the night.
