The newly redeveloped Altona Tennis Club courts are ready for play following the completion of a three-year, $2.6m major upgrade. The project was served to the public at a launch ceremony attended this morning by Minister for Community Sport, The Hon. Ros Spence MP; Member for Altona, The Hon. Jill Hennessy MP and Mayor of Hobsons Bay Councillor Peter Hemphill.
The upgrade includes five new classic clay profile synthetic courts, surface renewal of six En Tout Cas courts, new flood lighting, a state-of-the art irrigation system, spectator facilities and a new Book-a-Court system.
The project was funded with a $1m contribution from the state government as part of Sport & Recreation Victoria's Community Sports Infrastructure Stimulus Program with an additional $1.6m contribution from Council.
Mayor Peter Hemphill said that this new state-of-the-art facility would be open for casual access by the community when the courts were not in use by the Altona Tennis Club.
"We are looking forward to seeing the newly resurfaced courts being put to good use by the Altona Tennis Club and also the broader community," said Cr Hemphill.
"Team sports are not for everyone as they can require a significant commitment in terms of time. With very few barriers to entry, tennis provides a great sporting activity for those who are time poor. All you need is a racquet and a friend."
President of Altona Tennis Club Jerome Champetier de Ribes said that the renovation was a complete renaissance for the club.
"We're immensely thankful to Council and the state government for making this happen." said Mr Champetier de Ribes.
The courts are currently open for Altona Tennis Club members with casual community bookings expected to commence in July/August. Bookings can be made via Tennis Australia at play.tennis.com.au.
Photo caption L to R: Ewa Schreiber (Altona Tennis Club Treasurer), Jerome Champetier de Ribes (Altona Tennis Club President), Mayor Peter Hemphill
