The Whitemore Tennis Club was founded in 1910. Asphalt was laid on the courts in 1921, a shed was built in 1923, the clubrooms were constructed in the early 1960s and the three courts were plexi-paved in 2002.

A hugely appreciated grant from Bendigo Bank (Community Bank Deloraine and Districts) in 2023 enabled the club to upgrade the clubrooms, with the addition of a new deck, new windows and doors, a BBQ and painting inside. This has made a massive difference to the club, with all members enjoying the new social spaces.

While usage of the courts has dramatically increased across all age groups, unfortunately the level of investment into the sporting facilities has resulted in unsafe, tired and non-compliant playing facilities.

There is insufficient seating around the courts, the shade cloth along the north-west fence has shredded, there are significant tripping hazards on the courts and there is no balustrade on the deck.

Our club needs to be safe, compliant and an attractive community space for farmers and community members, as well as mobility impaired people, by adding balustrade to the deck, replacing the shade cloth, resurfacing the courts, purchasing new tables and chairs, and an outdoor lounge. 

The key elements include:

·        Resurfacing of the three tennis courts

The courts are badly cracked and water is pooling in low areas, resulting in several serious injuries to players. 

·        Construction of balustrade along the front and side and the access ramp of the new deck

The new deck is not compliant and requires balustrade along the front and side, as well as along the access ramp. We have worked closely with Rope n Chain to design a new stainless steel balustrade with 1428.2 compliant handrails and a lower kerb rail. This will ensure all players, children and community members using the deck are safe, as well as provide access to those with mobility issues.

·        New shade cloth on the court fences

The shade cloth that projects the players and courts from the regular blustery winds has disintegrated, resulting in torn sail flapping around the fence lines. 

·        Additional tables and bench seats

There is a lack of seating along the courts for spectators to watch the tennis games. Three additional tables with attached bench seats are proposed, ensuring they are sturdy, enduring, practical and weather resistant.

·        Lounges

To ensure our members are able to relax on the deck between games, we would love to purchase two three-seat lounges that can be used both indoors and outdoors. This will also assist with the attraction of private functions, providing additional seating.