Construction Begins on Darwin's New Home of Squash
01-Feb-2012 - NT Government Release
Minister Rob Knight said the $4 million facility will be built to an international standard.
“With 12 courts, a kiosk, change rooms and ancillary offices and a caretaker’s residence, our top level Squash players will be able to develop their skills in a world-class facility,” Minister Knight said.
“There are more than 600 registered Squash players in the Territory, and I know this new facility will help to grow the sport even further.
“The Territory government is committed to supporting local clubs and developing home-grown talent, like under 17’s men’s number one player and NTIS scholarship holder Rhys Dowling, and that is why we have invested $4 million in this facility.”
Dr Richard Weir from the Darwin Squash Association, which has the largest playing base of any Squash club in Australia, says it’s a boon for the sport.
“The commissioning of this world class squash facility will enable the squash community of Darwin and the NT (both past present and future), the opportunity to return Squash to one of the pre-eminent sports of Darwin, by providing a venue for local, national and international events for Juniors, Pennant and Masters players.”
Fiona McLaughlin from Squash NT says the delivery of the new complex has been a collaborative effort between the Squash NT, the Darwin Squash Association and the NT Government.
“It’s also great to see Nightcliff Builders have come on board to build the facility, who also built the new Palmerston tennis and netball facility.”
Minister Knight said the complex is another fantastic addition to the Marrara Sporting Precinct.
“The new moveable wall technology as part of the construction of the complex means it can also be used for a range of other sporting uses such as fitness classes and other indoor sports,” Minister Knight said.
Construction of the facility is expected to be completed in mid 2012.