Seymour’s sports enthusiasts have reason to celebrate as the Victorian government announces significant improvements to local sporting facilities.
The Seymour Tennis Complex and Kings Park Equestrian Arena are set to benefit from new lighting installations and infrastructure upgrades, enhancing opportunities for athletes and community members alike.
Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence recently visited Seymour to officially open the Tennis Complex Lighting Project.
The $265,000 investment from the Local Sports Infrastructure Fund has enabled the installation of 500 lux LED lighting on four previously unlit courts at the Seymour Tennis Centre.
This upgrade not only allows for evening play but also meets competition standards, potentially attracting more tournaments to the area.
The new lighting is expected to support the tennis club’s 60 members and encourage junior participation through programs like Hot Shots Tennis.
The upgrade responds to a growing trend in Seymour, where more players are opting for weeknight games under lights.
In addition to the tennis complex, the Kings Park Equestrian Arena has received a new roof cover with LED lighting, allowing equestrians to continue their activities regardless of weather conditions.
The arena improvements also include the addition of accessible toilet facilities, eliminating the need for users to rely on external public restrooms.
Mitchell Shire Council has contributed over $250,000 to support these upgrades, demonstrating a strong local commitment to improving sports infrastructure.
These developments are part of a broader initiative by the Victorian government to enhance community sports facilities.
The Victorian Budget 2024/25 has allocated more than $23 million for new and improved community sports infrastructure and initiatives aimed at boosting participation and inclusion in local sports.
Minister Spence emphasised the significance of these upgrades, stating: “These new upgrades are a real boost to a sport loving community — they are delivering world class facilities that will allow people to enjoy tennis and equestrian for more of the day, regardless of the time or weather.”
Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes added: “Improving sports infrastructure in communities like Seymour enhances the town’s liveability and brings people together so everyone can participate in the sports they love close to home.”
Since 2014, the state government has invested more than $1.9 billion in community sport and active recreation infrastructure, underlining its commitment to promoting health and wellbeing through sports across Victoria.