$4m club advantage

Busselton Tennis Club will move to a new $4.25 million base on Busselton foreshore with 15 grass courts, eight hard courts and state-of-the-art technology.

The new venue’s grass courts were played on for the first time at the club’s open tournament in March.

Eight hard courts are yet to be completed, with lights and the new clubhouse development on track for its October 30 deadline and the summer tennis season.

Club president Barry House said $180,000 of funding had come from Tennis Australia, with most of the money coming from the State Government and the City of Busselton.

“Busselton Tennis Club have made an enormous contribution in terms of voluntarily taking on a big part of the relocation project, principally the courts, and making sure we have the best technology in the new centre,” he said. “From the club’s point of view, we’re very pleased with the progress and really looking forward to a revitalised future at the new site.”

The funding coincides with the City’s redevelopment of Busselton foreshore.

City community services manager Maxine Palmer said the development of the new tennis facilities was supported by several volunteers, keeping labour costs low.

“The cClub has managed the development of the new courts and associated infrastructure, such as lighting and fencing to a budget of around $1.5 million,” she said.

“Through the dedication of volunteer labour, they have helped to augment the outcomes of the project to deliver additional courts and other benefits.”

With about 250 members, the club is confident the move will help expand the reach of tennis in the community and the clubhouse will attract more members.

“The new centre will entice visitors as it will be the best regional centre in Australia and has already attracted the 2020 Australian seniors’ championships for January, 2020,” Mr House said.

“The clubhouse and carparkcar park are proceeding at pace. It will be a great facility for Busselton and the South West.”

The new facility will incorporate professional coaching and management, while club tennis and competitions will still be played over winter during the development.