The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien has congratulated Sale Tennis Club on the successful outcome of its Round 2 application to the Regional Community Sports Infrastructure Fund (RCSIF), which will fund a major redevelopment of the club’s facilities.
Mr O’Brien said this is a fantastic result for Sale Tennis Club and a great example of a forward-thinking community club investing in the future of local sport.
“The upgrades will not only improve the quality of facilities for current members, but will also create exciting new opportunities for participation across all ages and abilities.”
The RCSIF funding will support a wide-ranging redevelopment at the club, including:
• Replacement of degraded acrylic hardcourts with high-quality porous artificial grass to improve playability and program delivery
• Installation of modern, energy-efficient LED lighting to Tennis Victoria’s “club standard” to extend coaching and playing opportunities into the evenings
• Upgraded fencing, including full-height wind barriers on three sides of the court enclosure, improving comfort and court usability
• Construction of four dedicated Hot Shots courts to drive junior participation and provide inclusive options for athletes with a disability, with the flexibility to support Pickleball and POP Tennis
• A new dedicated hitting wall to offer additional practice and recreational options for players.
Mr O’Brien praised the club for its initiative and hard work in delivering such a well-rounded and inclusive project and acknowledged the vital role of Wellington Shire Council in supporting the application.
“These projects don’t happen without dedicated volunteers, a clear vision, and strong support from local government.
“I commend Sale Tennis Club and thank Wellington Shire Council for helping bring this fantastic upgrade to life.”
Mr O’Brien encouraged other local sporting clubs and community organisations to consider future funding opportunities, with the next round of the Local Sports Infrastructure Fund set to open in the coming months.
“Applications to the Fund must be made through your local government, so I encourage interested clubs to start conversations early,” Mr O’Brien said.
“Sale Tennis Club has set a great example—now is the time to plan ahead and get your ideas moving.”
More information, as well as a Community Organisation Expression of Interest Form to submit to your local government, can be found at sport.vic.gov.au/funding/local-sports-infrastructure-fund.