The recently upgraded Lemon Grove Netball Courts at Ettalong has been well received by the local netball playing community as the 2019 season kicks off.

Central Coast Council completed the $1.12million redevelopment works which included full court resurfacing, ‘Fast5’ game line markings on eight of the 14 courts and adjustable goal posts for junior competitions.  Upgrade works also included the installation of new floodlighting, carpark resurfacing, installation of a drink bottle refill station and new park furniture. 

The project was jointly funded with a $905,620 investment by Council, $200,000 contribution from the Woy Woy Peninsula Netball Association, plus a $50,000 grant received from NSW Government’s Community Building Partnerships Program for the upgrade to drainage system to support court upgrade.

Netball is the most popular social sport in the world for women and has been played in Australia since 1897!   On the Central Coast, netball continues to be a leading participation sport for all ages.

Woy Woy Peninsula Netball Association President Lisa Coakley said the netball court upgrades have come at the right time as the popularity of the sport continues on the Peninsula.

“Our association was first founded in 1974 and we continue to have members of all ages, with many of our adult players first stepping onto a netball court as a junior with our association,” Ms Coakley said.

“The club is also introducing netball to the next generation of netball players on the Coast with the NetSetGo Junior program developing the skills of children aged 5 to 12. 

“These recent upgrades are fantastic and were much needed. Our association is thankful to Council for its ongoing support and delivery of this project.   The association also acknowledge the work of the court upgrade contractor, Courtcraft for the finished product.

Central Coast Council Mayor Jane Smith said upgrading sporting facilities is a key priority for Council due to the extensive community benefit they bring.. 

“Sporting clubs and facilities are places where we socialise, keep active and engage in community activities, and are spaces truly valued by our community,”   Mayor Smith said.

“They help the community build social networks and create a sense of belonging – whilst delivering a multitude of physical and mental health benefits.

“Council is proud to have partnered with the Woy Woy Peninsula Netball Association and thanks the group and the NSW Government’s financial contribution and commitment to seeing this upgrade delivered for our community”.

Council will continue to invest in maintaining, building and activating quality sporting facilities for the health benefit of our community – now and for future generations.