Georgia Tacey
New Gisborne tennis players can now have extra time on court with new lighting switched on at the New Gisborne Tennis Club.
The new lighting was made possible by $170,000 in funding from the Regional Community Sports Infrastructure Fund, as well as a $121,000 contribution from Macedon Ranges council.
Macedon MP Mary-Anne Tomas, mayor Dom Bonanno and members of the New Gisborne Tennis Club joined together on Friday, May 16 to officially flick the switch, which will see more games going later into the night.
“With the upgrade of these lighting facilities, the New Gisborne tennis community can look forward to more court time throughout the year, with shorter days over winter months presenting less of a barrier for training and matches,” Ms Thomas said.
“More playable hours means the club will have even more opportunities to expand its programs and get even more locals in on the fun.
“Better facilities like these make it easier for people to lead active and healthy lifestyles, full of the health and wellbeing benefits offered by participating in sport and recreation.”
Cr Bonanno said the upgrades were another win for the local community.
“This is such a great outcome for New Gisborne and our broader tennis community. These new lights won’t just brighten up the courts, they light the way for more inclusive and accessible active communities,” he said.
“We know how important local sports clubs are to our community – whether you’re a seasoned player or picking up a racquet for the first time, having a safe and well-lit space to play makes a big difference, especially as winter draws nearer.”
With 75 members signed up at the club and growing ranks of juniors taking up the game, the new lights open the door for more pathway and local development programs at the club.
The improved lighting also allows for more training and competition tennis, with the new 350 lux LED lighting illuminating courts one and two, meeting competition standards.
It will also open up the complex as a possible venue for bigger tournaments.
