Report gives Melton tennis players big win

Eddie Russel

Tennis fans from Melton can count on a trump card thanks to a new tennis strategy.

At a meeting on Monday 22nd July, Melton City Council tabled a motion to consider Melton’s tennis strategy in the next budget.

The report provides guidance for the future planning, development, governance and growth of the sport over the next decade.

It includes funding of up to $34.6 million for the development of 18 new courts and the modernization of existing courts.

Councillor Steve Abboushi said the strategy would help council accommodate the growth of the game.

“It’s a big deal for our residents because it’s a roadmap for the next 10 years of how we’re going to grow and manage tennis in our city,” he said.

“With the population expected to increase by 2034, we are planning ahead to ensure there are enough tennis facilities for everyone.”

Tennis is currently the sixth most played sport in Melton, with over 1,000 registered participants across eight clubs in the borough.

It is expected that by 2034 an additional 620 players will join local tennis clubs, with thousands more recreational participants joining.

Councillor Abboushi said the council would prioritise investment and partnership with relevant groups to meet the demand for the sport, both in competitive and recreational settings.

“We are committed to building new courses, improving existing courses and establishing new clubs in key areas such as the western and eastern corridors of Melton,” he said.

“We are working closely with Tennis Victoria and local clubs to ensure we get this right.”

Councillor Julie Shannon said residents should be able to enjoy local sport and the council would aim to remove barriers to participation.

“Sports should be accessible, inclusive, affordable and close to where you live. That is what we are delivering with these strategies,” she said.

“The council has worked closely with sports clubs in our city and relevant sports associations to ensure we meet the needs of future communities.”