The completion of the $1,275,000 Western Plains Equestrian Arena facility has topped the list of achievements for Warren Shire Council in 2023.

The covered, sand-based 80m x 42m arena, completed in April last year, was a much-anticipated development at the Showground/Racecourse Complex ever since funding was announced in October 2018.

It's completion has meant the region is well-equipped to host a broad range of equestrian sporting events.

A redevelopment of the Warren Showground and Racecourse, the Warren Shire Council Mayor Milton Quigley said that the purpose of the project was to construct quality equestrian sport infrastructure in order to hold more National, State and regional events.

"The project will result in improved participation across a broad range of sports. There will be significant economic, health and social outcomes for the region as a whole,” he said.

The successful application was as a result of a collaboration between the Council and the local user groups of the Showground/Racecourse including: the Central West Adult Riding Club, Warren Pony Club, Warren Rodeo (Campdraft) Inc, Warren Jockey Club, Warren P&A, Warren Polocrosse Association and the St Marys P&F.

Most of these groups have used the facility since it's completion with Secretary of Warren Pony Club, Jo Hooper telling Western Plains App reporters the facility was fantastic.

“I loved riding on it, and so did my kids. It’s a very safe environment for the beginner rider,” Mrs Hooper said.

“It’s so exciting to have such a fantastic centre in our area, I’m sure it will get a lot of use.”

The Warren Pony Club also benefited from an accessible amenities facility at their own grounds - another Warren Shire "highlight."

Road rehabilitation, arts and culture, community events and community education also featured in the work of the Warren Shire this year.

On the tourism front, the much-anticipated Burrima Boardwalk officially opened last October. This stretches for 2km at the western edge of the Macquarie Marshes. Warren Shire Council say it is set to become a tourism drawcard, attracting people from near and far to experience first-hand around 260 animal species living in the wetland reserve.