Kids bounce back with new sports courts

STUDENTS at Inverleigh Primary School were greeted on their first day back to school with an upgrade to their recreational facilities.

An overhauled basketball and netball court was installed over the summer break and the new facilities join the overhead shelter that was added last year.

Principal, Sharon Baker, said improvements to the facilities were needed.

“It’s been a long time coming because the basketball courts hadn’t had any kind of upgrades since they were installed,” she said.

“I’m not sure when the original court was constructed but the new surface has certainly improved the appearance of that play space in the school.

“The previous surface was just an asphalt surface and the upgrade of the whole area was a priority because previously the school didn’t have an undercover play space either.”

Installed by Sports Courts Victoria, the amenities were funded as part of a $170,000 election commitment by Federal Member for Corangamite, Libby Coker, in 2022.

Ms Baker said the new court has been well-used in the community even before the start of the school term.

“We’ve had kids sneaking in over the holidays to see it, and when we put photos up on our social media we had a great response from our parent community,” she said.

“The new surface is a lot more forgiving if anyone falls over but it’s also perfect for ball sports and being active in all weather.

“We have a very active community here at the school. They love their sports so it’s great to be able to provide this great new facility for them.”