Gotta love that tennis funding

By Callan Date
NARRE Warren residents have been served up an ace with the State Government committing $347,000 to a new tennis facility.
As a result, six new synthetic clay tennis courts and a pavilion will be established next to Narre Warren South P-12 College.
Minister for Sport and Recreation James Merlino announced the funding last Thursday, saying the money would be provided to the City of Casey to help complete the project.
Casey will contribute the remaining $700,000 to the facility, which is expected to be completed by mid 2009.
“There are more than 18 tennis clubs in the City of Casey and a shortage of tennis courts to cater to this demand,” Mr Merlino said.
“The Brumby Government funding will help develop six new competition standard courts and a pavilion, including lighting for four courts for after hours training, competition and recreation.”
He said the synthetic court surface would lead to significant water savings, which would help play an important role in ensuring the sustainability of the facility.
Narre Warren South MP Judith Graley said the tennis facility was part of plans for a larger multi-use precinct, which will include playing fields for soccer, cricket and Australian Rules football.
“Narre Warren is experiencing strong growth and as a result, there is an increased demand for quality sporting facilities,” Ms Graley said.
“The new tennis courts and the larger multi-use precinct will benefit prep to year 12 students from the Narre Warren South College as well as hundreds of people from the local community.”
Mr Merlino said funding for the facility is through the Victorian Government’s 2008-2009 Community Facility Funding Program – Majors Category.
“These grants represent the Brumby Government’s commitment to developing high quality, accessible community sport and recreation facilities across the state,” he said.
“By providing better sport and recreation facilities, we’re encouraging more Victorians to lead healthy and active lifestyles, which is what our Go For Your Life campaign is all about.”