Sometimes little improvements can make a big difference.
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That's how the Gloucester District Tennis Association (GDTA) feels about the installation of permanent line markers on its clay courts.
At the moment, every time the courts are used, new lime marking need to be physically imprinted by the court maintenance manager, as they are easily scuffed up during play.
Now, thanks to a funding injection from the Federal Community Sport Infrastructure Program, the club will be able to put permanent marking on all nine clay courts.
"This will help with our court manager's workload, and the expense of lime and a new machine," club secretary Jean Buettel explained.
Federal member for Lyne, David Gillespie came into Gloucester recently to share the great news, telling club members about the $15,840 the Government is kicking in toward the $20,000 project.
According to Jean, the grant funding means the courts will now be accessible more frequently for players without the necessity of prior maintenance.
"I’m delighted to see the local courts will receive some much needed attention for the benefit of all the players who use the both the clay courts and the grass courts," Dr Gillespie said.
In addition to the line markings, new seating has been installed out front of the clubhouse during a working bee involving the hard working of a group of volunteers.
The seating, which was picked up for free from Sydney's Allianz Stadium thanks to the proactive efforts of Gloucester's Ray Fitzgerald, is the perfect addition to a facility that holds Tennis NSW sanctioned tournaments.
On Thursday February 21, Ray was joined by volunteers Steve Munn (new club president), Julie Munn, Tom Power, Des Merchant and Suzie Dark to install the first 70 chairs, with more still to come.
"The chairs look great and the club is grateful," club treasurer Ruth Johnson said. "The chairs will be well received at the tournaments and during local competitions."
The Gloucester District Tennis Association (GDTA) has been a part of the Gloucester sporting landscape since 1934, and has provided tennis facilities to the Gloucester community during this period.
The club maintains 15 tennis courts, six synthetic grass and nine clay, which are available for hire and are used by the local schools. Regular competitions are held at the club including weekly men’s, women’s and mixed competitions, as well as two tournaments each year; the Tennis NSW sanctioned Gloucester Open and the Gloucester Seniors Tournament,held in conjunction with NSW Tennis Seniors.