The upgraded certification will allow Albury Council to bid for major events at Alexandra Park, which has undergone a $1 million-plus makeover.

Bob Jones, from New Zealand-based Sports Surface Consultants, is in Albury to complete the final audit and submit a report on the track to the IAAF for approval of Class 2 status.

Class 1 is the highest level an individual facility can achieve, and they are generally based in metropolitan areas with an accompanying training facility.

Alexandra Park is used for up to 60 school sports carnivals each year, plus weekly seasonal competition for local athletic clubs, athletes and coaches.

“It has ticked all the boxes,” Mr Jones said.

“We’ve got a few calculations to do, but we are confident it will be good to go.

“This one has been quite a major job.

“Not only was the surface replaced, but there was quite a bit of base work to do to bring it up to scratch.”

Alexandra Park advi- sory committee chairman Cr Daryl Betteridge said Class 2 certification would enable the council and local athletic groups to bid for state and national championships.

“I believe it is money well spent and it has created a world class facility in a regional area,” he said.

“It is a good use of council funds and a good result for everyone.

“The feedback has been positive.”