The tennis courts at Springfield Central Sports Complex will become a hive of activity when Baseline Tennis Coaching moves in to manage the facilities in October.
Council voted unanimously in favour of a five-year lease with the company, following an open tender process to operate and manage the facilities.
Tennis players will be able to pay to book the courts for social hire, including evenings to play and train under lights.
Other tennis activities such as Hot Shots for children and Cardio Tennis for all fitness levels will be introduced, as well as competitive fixtures at the facility.
Division 2 Councillor Nicole Jonic said a specialist tennis operator would ensure the facility is used to its full extent and maintained in optimal condition.
“Having a first-class venue to train and play tennis either in the day or the evening will provide a boost to Ipswich’s tennis community and help support players of all ages,” Cr Jonic said.
“Baseline Tennis Coaching will deliver a range of new opportunities, including professional coaching and competitions.
“The company already has a presence in our schools and tennis clubs and hires local staff, which helps to support our local economy.”
Council provided the community with free access to the courts from October 2019 to ensure the facilities were in use until the tender process was completed.
Several other tennis courts in the Springfield area remain free for residents to use on a ‘first-in-first-play’ basis, including:
- Grande Park, Grande Avenue Springfield Lakes (lights on until 10pm)
- Atlantic Drive Sporting Complex, Summit Drive Springfield Lakes (lights on until 10pm)
- Spring Lake Park, Springfield Lakes Boulevard, Springfield Lakes (lights on until 10pm)
Following expressions of interest in 2019, Council granted seasonal permits to several other sporting clubs at Springfield Central Sporting Complex, including Springfield United and Western Pride football clubs, Springfield Lakes and South West Wildcats netball clubs and Greater Springfield Sports (cricket and AFL.)
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