Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke made something of a racquet at Ungarie Tennis Club last night as she enjoyed a quick rally with Bland Shire Mayor Brian Monaghan.
Ms Cooke and the Mayor were celebrating the opening of the club’s newly resurfaced courts, which were upgraded thanks to $264,520 of Stronger Country Communities Fund Round One money.
“These courts are absolutely superb to play on, I can certainly reassure anybody of that,” Ms Cooke said.
“And with three courts all boasting this concrete and rubber grit-coated surface, the club will be able to enjoy their tennis for many years to come.
“This is a fantastic result for the club, and it shows what happens when the community and the NSW Government work together to create exciting outcomes in the Cootamundra electorate.
“It’s an honour for me to be a part of that, and I’m sure the club members are just as delighted as I am at seeing so many smiling faces here today.”
Ungarie Tennis Club president Scott Robb said the courts will provide a great playing surface which will encourage new members to join or inspire former members to pick up their racquets again.
“It’s a concrete surface with a rubber compound in the paint which provides good grip for players and slows the pace of the ball,” Mr Robb said.
“These courts are going to last forever and help the club continue for generations.
“We can now hold day games which used to suffer due to a lack of numbers, because we hope interest will be rejuvenated and more people start playing again.
“And a lot of people wouldn’t play night tennis because with only two courts, the nights would drag on.
“With three courts we will be able to get more games played and people won’t have to wait so long.”
