Lights switched on at tennis club

GEELONG Lawn Tennis Club officially switched on their new LED lights in a courtside ceremony after securing a grant from the City of Greater Geelong.

The grant facilitated the upgrade of the club’s outdated and energy-intensive metal halide lighting to modern LED technology.

The event was attended by the Mayor of Geelong, Mr Trent Sullivan, Tennis Australia representatives and club members.

Cr Trent Sullivan said the new lights would improve conditions and cut costs.

“Council was really pleased to be able to support this upgrade, as it ticks so many boxes,” he said.

“It will provide more opportunities for players, help the club reduce its energy bills and minimise the impact on the environment.”

Cr Sullivan said Geelong Lawn Tennis Club was one of 44 local groups to share in $3.1 million from Council’s 2022-23 Community Grants program.

The club contributed $64,000 to the project, which the council doubled with the $128,000 grant.

The installation of new LEDs aims to

increase the participation of players — including adult competition and coaching, and junior coaching — at night.

Club Vice-President Andrew Alexander said the lights improved safety and playability.

“The installation of LEDs has resulted in a dramatic improvement in the safety and playability of the courts for both junior and senior players,” he said.

“The new lights make the weekly night competition more enjoyable because players get a far better illumination.”

The tennis club runs social tennis Programs most weeknights & weekends, suitable for levels from improvers to advanced players.