The Merimbula Basketball and Netball Associations are calling time on the courts at Fishpen, close to Merimbula’s Main Beach.
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President of Merimbula Basketball Cliff Scarlett said it’s time for the 30-year-old facilities to be upgraded.
“You can’t play in winter because as soon as its damp the courts are too slippery and if it rains then you can’t play either.
“Not only that the surface is starting to move so we can’t play on it for much longer,” Mr Scarlett said.
The answer, both the basketball and netball clubs believe, is a cover similar to that installed over the bowling greens at Club Sapphire but with a hard metal roof.
The clubs are happy to retain the existing footprint of four courts and in pursing their dream of new covered courts have engaged with neighbours to ensure there are no issues.
“We’ve had support from other stakeholders such as the sailboard riders and the surf life savers who use the club house. Both Coast Apartments and Tween Waters are supportive too,” Mr Scarlett said.
Despite their problems the courts are well-used with play on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and Mr Scarlett said they would be used even more with a roof over them.
“The basketball and netball clubs have over 600 participating members, that is without siblings, parents and supporters.
“Covered courts would be a community asset which would be available to be used by schools, locals, tourists. Currently we can’t hold any competitions here because of the state of the courts and the possibility they might be wet so there’s a potential increase in revenue for the community if we can start holding competitions. This would allow players to improve,” he said.
The clubs have started talks with council and state and federal politicians.
“There are a number of grants around and we want to take advantage of that. We’re not asking for money from council,” Mr Scarlett stressed.
The four existing courts are on Crown Land which is managed by council. The clubs have asked Alan Greenwood at Zenith Planning to prepare a DA so that they are ready to move should a grant be forthcoming.
“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to build something for future generations that will be here after we go.” He urged anyone with questions to email him at: merimbulabasketball@gmail.com.
