It also includes the installation of peripheral lighting to support safe access, along with an automated lighting system.
The total project cost is $592,925, ex-GST.
Haven Tennis Club secretary Sue Exell said the lighting project would help turn the facility into a regional tennis hub and allow it to implement new and continue existing programs for junior and senior players.
She said it would benefit more than the Haven club, but the entire Central Wimmera Tennis Association, and attracting regional tournaments.
The lighting will also allow competition tennis to be played at night on days when the temperature is too hot.
“It is very exciting. I don’t think I’ve got the smile off my face since I heard,” she said.
“We could actually fit a whole senior grand final if needed under lights, so it just opens opportunities.
“It’ll also mean with that number of courts, there could be competitions or socials on Monday or Tuesday nights.
“It’s just going to be interesting now to see what can happen, especially when there’s a coach that can lead those sort of programs.”
Mrs Exell said the lighting project had been a long time in the works, dating back to 2013 when the courts were built.
“We’ve tried that many times to get grants and nothing’s happened, but now the council are really serious – they want this project to happen,” she said.
A Horsham Rural City Council spokesperson said works would commence in early to mid-2027 and be completed by the end of 2027.
“Lighting up tennis in Horsham has been identified as a key priority for our municipality and we are excited by the significant benefits this project will deliver,” the spokesperson said.
“HRCC thanks the State Government for its ongoing support and for investing in this project, as well as Tennis Victoria for its support and assistance in planning for this project.”
Horsham Rural City Council was also successful in its grant application for a Horsham Aquatic Centre feasibility study.
Meanwhile, Ararat Rural City Council will receive funding to upgrade multi-use courts and for the design of netball and tennis changerooms at Moyston.
Northern Grampians Shire Council was successful in receiving a grant for St Arnaud Bowling Club facility planning.
West Wimmera Shire Council has successfully secured funding for works at Serviceton Bowling Club, Edenhope Swimming Centre and Harrow Recreation Reserve, with projects addressing ageing infrastructure, improving accessibility, and supporting the long-term sustainability of valued community assets.
Serviceton will receive a new seven-rink bowling green, along with upgraded accessible amenities, carparking and pathways.
The project will replace the existing natural turf green with a modern synthetic surface, reducing the heavy maintenance burden on volunteers and ensuring the club can continue operating.
At Harrow Recreation Reserve, new AFL and netball LED scoreboards will replace existing manual systems.
The upgrade will provide improved visibility for players and spectators, reduce manual processes, and bring the site’s sporting facilities in line with modern expectations.
Harrow and Serviceton will be supported by major community contributions ensuring these vital community projects can proceed.
At Edenhope, the development of schematic designs for the swimming pool and changerooms will focus on upgrading ageing infrastructure, improving accessibility, and ensuring the centre meets modern safety and inclusion standards.
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