Goolagong-Cawley joins in opening of new $16m tennis courts
TWO time Wimbledon Champion, Evonne Goolagong-Cawley joined Blacktown Mayor Stephen Bali and Tennis Australia president, Stephen Healey to officially open the new Blacktown Tennis Centre Stanhope on Saturday.
Rouse Hill
Don't miss out on the headlines from Rouse Hill. Followed categories will be added to My News.
TWO time Wimbledon Champion, Evonne Goolagong-Cawley joined Blacktown Mayor Stephen Bali and Tennis Australia president, Stephen Healey to officially open the new Blacktown Tennis Centre Stanhope on Saturday.
Mrs Goolagong-Cawley said she remembered her days when she started playing tennis at her local club.
“I was one of those girls who had a dream to one day play at Wimbledon ... if it wasn’t for my local club I would not have been able to achieve that dream,’’ she said.
“I am a big advocate for young people to dream, believe, learn and achieve.”
She even took the opportunity to show the audience who gathered for the opening, the kind of stick she used to practice hitting a ball against a wall when she was a child.
Tennis Australia president Stephen Healey said the $16 million tennis centre is a landmark project in a key growth area.
“’It is the biggest single investment into a tennis facility by a local government in NSW,’’ Mr Healey said.
The Stanhope Gardens centre features 16 plexicushion courts, including four championship size courts, an exhibition court, grandstand seating for 288 spectators, administration and tournament office, function room, change room, toilets, children’s play area with tennis rebound walls and additional car parking.
It was designed by Allen Jack + Cottier Architects in consultation with Council, Blacktown Tennis Inc, Tennis NSW and Tennis Australia. It will host state regional and local competitions and will also be available for the community to hire for coaching and social matches.
As part of the development the Leisure Centre’s existing indoor stadium has been expanded to four courts suitable for a variety of sports.
More than 2000 visitors came down to the courts to have a hit and also enjoy a variety of clinics and stalls during the annual Blacktown City Family SportsFest.
The Blacktown Tennis Centre Stanhope is now available to hire by calling 9421 2600.
‘Immensely humbling’: Oz Day honours for Sydney’s local legends
While some call it “immensely humbling”, others have joked about thinking “which bastard has put me on here”. Meet Sydney’s local legends recognised on Australia Day.
‘A privilege’: Ceremonies continue, regardless of ‘cranky’ Dutton plan
Sydney and regional councils are embracing Australia Day citizenship ceremonies, with one outspoken mayor reminding the Opposition Leader he doesn’t need to start a “petty culture” fight.