The future of major tennis events will be in safe hands under The Nationals and Liberals with a plan to invest $5 million in redeveloping the Traralgon Tennis Centre.
The Traralgon Tennis Centre is widely regarded as the best regional tennis venue in regional Victoria because of its court facilities, but the clubhouse and indoor player amenities are outdated and below the standard expected for professional events.
The club has hosted the renowned Traralgon Junior International (TJI) for 34 years – an event that boasts an honour role of past winners including Roger Federer, Ash Barty and Alex Zverev.
The Traralgon Junior International contributes approximately $2.2 million every year to the Latrobe Valley economy, and other professional and satellite tour events at the club contribute an additional $4 million to the economy every year.
The Nationals’ Member for Morwell, Martin Cameron, said the funding was an investment in the future of major events in the Latrobe Valley.
“Traralgon has secured the hosting rights for the Junior International through until 2031, but that is dependent on the club upgrading its clubhouse and player amenities to meet international standards.
“The Latrobe Valley can’t afford to lose events of this calibre and their economic benefits – that’s why I’m proud to announce this investment as part of my commitment to shoring-up our future.”
“This is about so much more than investing in a single club – it’s about securing the future of international events that contribute millions to our local economy every year.”
Shadow Minister for Tourism and Major Events, David Southwick, said major events were about far more than providing a spectacle for locals.
“These upgrades will ensure the Traralgon Junior International remains in the Valley for another 34 years and will allow the region to attract other international events of this calibre,” Mr Southwick said.
“Tourism and major events are crucial for regional communities, and they deserve to have the same backing and assurance as major events in Melbourne.
“The Nationals and Liberals in government will support major events in regional Victoria and invest in their future.”
