Leopold excited for new home of tennis

LEOPOLD’S tennis community can look forward to a new base of operations with a new pavilion confirmed for construction in the Bellarine town.

A new fit-for-purpose tennis pavilion was all but confirmed at Leopold Tennis Club following the City of Greater Geelong’s commitment of $720,000 at the end of 2021, but the project was further consolidated following Labor’s re-election in the state district of Bellarine and its $1 million election commitment in May 2022.

The project, initially estimated to cost $1.52 million, involves demolishing the existing tennis pavilion, designing a new building in consultation with club members, then constructing a facility that meets the needs of the local tennis community.

Leopold Tennis Club treasurer Anne-Maree Hoare said the club was excited it can look forward to a new pavilion after more than a decade of advocacy.

“The pavilion we have right now has certainly aged a bit.

“I believe the building has been there since the 1970s, so hopefully it will attract some more players to the club for us.

“It’s exciting to know it’s on the way finally, we were kind of hoping it would be under construction by this stage, but we’ll have to wait a little bit longer.”

Bellarine Ward councillor Jim Mason said the new pavilion was an important facility in encouraging Leopold residents to take up a new sport and continue being active.

“The Leopold Tennis Club has long been an integral part of the sporting hub that exists at Leopold Memorial Recreation Reserve.

“Whether it be tennis, cricket, football or some of the more passive recreational pursuits, this precinct has been key to keeping the Leopold community engaged and active.

“Now an upgraded tennis pavilion of this nature has the potential to encourage even more people to take to the courts and enjoy the company and competition of others.”

Bellarine MP Alison Marchant also welcomed the development and said it would encourage more Leopold residents to take on the sport.

“Once complete, this upgrade will go a long way to support the growing number of people in Leopold and surrounds keen to get involved in tennis.

“We’re investing in great projects like this, because they create jobs and help more people get fit, active and involved in local sport.”

The project is being funded and co-ordinated between the City of Greater Geelong and the state government’s Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions.