September 20, 2024
A new $315,000 sports precinct was officially opened by the “kids of Kumbia” in a ceremony organised by the South Burnett Regional Council on Friday afternoon.
A $200,000 investment by Council, plus $115,000 from the State Government’s Works 4 Queensland funding program, has resurrected the dilapidated tennis courts on the western edge of town.
The area now boasts a new concrete multi-purpose court, suitable for basketball, handball, netball and even soccer.
What used to be the centre tennis court has been turned into a skateboard area with portable jumps which can be shifted into different locations.
The third tennis court, which was the least damaged from the old complex, has been refurbished and can again host social tennis.
The Council makeover also includes all-inclusive swings in the adjacent park, two picnic shelters with tables, and an electric barbecue.
Kumbia Sports Association president Tony Dugdell said the project to revive the area had taken about 2 1/2 years.
It had started under the previous Council – especially former councillors Scott Henschen and Gavin Jones – but he thanked the current councillors for bringing it to fruition.
Mr Dugdell said there had been an “influx” of children in the Kumbia area over the last few years which had made the project important.
“It’s really good to see kids riding around again and doing things,” he said.
Mayor Kathy Duff and local councillor Ros Heit said it was wonderful to see children out and about again having fun in the area.
The project became necessary despite a $200,000 makeover of the tennis courts and clubhouse just five years ago.
Storm damage and cracking of the resurfacing made the courts unplayable, and weeds quickly reclaimed the area.
Council has been assured the new concrete multi-purpose court will last for decades.
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- Meeting To Discuss Tennis Courts
- Kumbia’s Courts Are A Big Hit
- Local Groups Get $251,000 In Grants
