Federal MP Sussan Ley today promised $180,000 towards a much-needed upgrade at Albury’s historic St Patrick’s Tennis Club, if a Dutton Coalition Government is elected this year.

The works, planned for a number of years but not fully funded, would include new LED lighting, resurfacing areas of the centre’s aging synthetic grass courts and fencing.

Ms Ley said Albury’s oldest tennis centre is also the most active between Sydney and Melbourne, hosting around 15,000 players on the ten-court facility every year.

“St Patrick’s was actually the first local club on the border to host night-time tennis back at its original South Albury home in the 1920s, installed I’m told for the princely sum of £130.

“The East Albury base was established in 1988 and is now clearly in need of a refresh to keep our community active and help foster the potential tennis stars of tomorrow.

“The Club first approached me around three years ago in a bid to find money for this upgrade, so I am delighted to be able to commit the funding should the Coalition be returned to power.”

St. Patrick’s Tennis Club President Phil Shanahan said the funding would be a game changer, with tennis needing to ensure its facilities were up to date to remain an attractive sports and fitness option for the border community.

“We pride ourselves on providing a safe family-friendly environment, welcoming players of all abilities, with coaching available from Junior Hot Shots right through to Elite Performance programs.”

Among the Coalition’s Top Ten priorities for a return to government is to Grow a stronger Regional Australia. Supporting grass roots organisations like this is one way to ensure we do just that.