It’s game, set and match for hub

PAKENHAM’S $3.5 million tennis hub is expected to be open for play early next year, with construction running to plan at the Webster Way site.
Cardinia Shire mayor Graeme Legge last week announced that an official launch was in the works for early 2010, when the 18-court Pakenham Regional Tennis Centre would be unveiled to local players.
The venue will boast floodlit plexi-cushion courts like those used at Melbourne Park during the Australian Open, plus a clubhouse, meeting room and function area.
The facility will be a boon for local clubs and coaches, but the council is also hoping to attract some big-name international tennis stars.
Cr Legge believes the playing surface and proximity to the city may encourage Australian Open entrants to use the centre as a pre-tournament training base.
“Who knows, we may one day be able to say that this tennis centre produced our next national champion,” he said.
“Tennis is a terrific sport that is growing in popularity across Cardinia Shire both at a competitive and social level.
“Our new regional tennis centre is designed to accommodate the needs of all clubs and tennis players in our shire. We want to ensure that this facility operates cost effectively and that fees are kept at a reasonable level.”
The centre will also provide some employment opportunities, with the council recently advertising positions including venue manager, programs and administration officer and customer service officer.