Serving up refurbished facilities in flood affected communities

Merriwa Park in Wangaratta is a popular spot with locals and visitors alike. Beneath shady gums, children play, families enjoy BBQs, and tourists relax. Its wide lawns host community events, including concerts. Most weekends, newlyweds can be seen posing for photos beside the picturesque pond.

One other activity you’ll be guaranteed to encounter in the park is tennis, thanks to the presence of the historic Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Club.

“The tennis club has about 500 members using its courts,” said Peter Ablazej, the president of the tennis club. “This number is boosted during our Australia Day Tournament, which attracts around 250 entries each year.” Non members also make use the facilities.

The community’s affection for Merriwa Park and its tennis club was evident during the 2010 floods. Volunteers came out in force to help sandbag the sunken park’s perimeter. Without their efforts, the park would undoubtedly have suffered more damage than it ultimately did.

Unfortunately parts of the tennis club did not escape the flood waters, leaving two of its hard tennis courts badly damaged and the heritage listed clubhouse structurally unsound.

Today, a $201,000 restoration project, funded with assistance from the Flood Recovery Community Infrastructure Fund administered by Regional Development Victoria, is well advanced.

Two new synthetic tennis courts are already in play, with junior players in particular benefiting from the increased capacity for coaching. New exterior fencing is in place as well.

“I have received many positive comments about the courts, particularly how they look and how they have enhanced the club,” said Peter.

Works on the clubhouse are also progressing. The building has been restumped and a major refurbishment of the kitchen facilities is underway, with new floor coverings and painting to occur throughout the rest of the building during December and January.

The investment means continued sporting and community benefits for Wangaratta. “Next year (2012) in January we are hosting the Victorian Regional Tournament, with players from all over Victoria,” said Peter. “The works are fantastic for the club, and will help attract new members and ensure its future.”

Tennis is set to have a home in Merriwa Park for many years to come.

Read more about the Flood Recovery Community Infrastructure Fund.