Northern Territory Minister for Tourism and Culture Lauren Moss

Jobs Created As Work Begins At Darwin’s New Tennis Centre

Victor P Taffa

Construction of the Top End’s new $16.7 Million world-class tennis centre at Marrara has begun with 220 jobs expected to be created throughout the project.

Minister for Tourism and Culture Lauren Moss today visited the development site to officially launch the construction phase which she says will boost the economy at a crucial time.

“Developments like this stimulate the local economy by creating jobs, they enhance our services and facilities and assist in bringing events and tourists to the Territory.” Ms. Moss said.

“MODE Design, a local architect company, led the design process and the Halikos Group was awarded the tender as head contractor to construct the centre, which is estimated to create more than 220 jobs and take approximately 12-months to complete.”

“As promised at the election, the Gunner Territory Government will continue to restore trust by creating jobs for Territorians and with the Warren Park and Indoor Netball Centre developments also scheduled for 2017, it’s an exciting time for the sports and construction industries.

“Once completed the Tennis Centre is expected to bring an economic benefit of nearly $4 Million annually through new events and also help develop ties with Asia through competition.” Ms. Moss said.

Complementing the existing facilities at Marrara Sporting Complex, the centre will have International Tennis Federation (ITF) compliant courts, four Hot Shot courts for younger participants and a prominent showpiece court.

“Having an international standard tennis facility accessible to local players will help better their skills, encourage more people to participate in the sport and attract national and international competitions to Darwin.” Ms. Moss said.

Tennis NT General Manager Sam Gibson said the centre will also feature lighting that meets ITF standards, a club house, office accommodation and car parking.

“A major facility capable of hosting events and driving community participation has long been a strategic priority for Tennis NT, as such it’s exciting for Territory Tennis to see this facility coming to fruition.” Mr. Gibson said.

“Contributing to the community is important for Tennis NT, we’re proud to be bringing this facility to Marrara hand in hand with our local contractors.  We thank the Northern Territory (NT) Government for their continued support of tennis in the NT.”

“This facility is going to make a real statement, not only about tennis in the NT, but also about the NT’s love for sport. We saw the success of the Davis Cup tie held in Darwin in 2015, we plan to bring a variety of events to the facility to showcase the sport to Territorian’s and Darwin to our visitors.” Mr. Gibson said.

A range of national and international events will be delivered at the venue including:

• Junior and Senior ITF Events,
• National Indigenous Tennis Carnival,
• Legends Challenge (Exhibition),
• Darwin International (Challenger level),
• Facility will also create further opportunities for events such as Davis and Fed Cup Ties, Oceania Championships and participation in the Arafura Games.