The article reported on a $100,000 funding announcement from the Minister for Sport, Damien Drum, for the redevelopment of the tennis and netball courts at Harry Trott Oval for the benefit of the South Bendigo Football Netball Club.

Mr Drum argues that the funding will ‘help regional clubs build quality local infrastructure or replace outdated venues to ensure better access and sports opportunities for all.’

I believe that the proposed upgrade of the tennis courts to multipurpose netball courts will benefit the local netball community at the expense of the local tennis community.  

The courts as they currently exist may appear outdated to the Minister, but they are a wonderful community space that is accessible for those not interested in participating in an organized sport such as netball.

I really value having a place that I can take my kids to have a hit of tennis at minimal cost and when it suits me.

The proposed upgrade of the courts will, in my opinion, effectively exclude people (like myself) who enjoy playing sport non-competitively or on a casual basis from the venue.

This does not ensure better access and sports opportunities for all - only for those who are playing in organized competitions.

What's your opinion?

Do you have some thoughts on this issue? Click here to send a letter to the editor.

Preference is given to letters of no more than 350 words.