Cairns QLD, Australia, 5 March 2018 | Tennis Queensland

Cairns Regional Tennis Centre has secured an exciting and major facility upgrade, with a $2-million roof to be built over centre court and the adjacent Hot Shots mini courts.

The project was flagged as a priority for Cairns Regional Council, which applied to the Federal Government for a dollar-for-dollar commitment through its $20-million jobs package for the Far North.

Approval of the funding was announced last week, with $1-million apiece committed by the Government and local council.

“It is with great appreciation that we welcome this significant investment in tennis in Cairns,” said Tennis Queensland Acting CEO Mark Handley.

“We’ve seen wonderful progress and nation-leading tennis programs come out of the region in recent years, and this funding shows the very real potential the region has to becoming a true leader in the delivery of our sport.”

A cover over both the centre and Hotshots courts will allow for play all year round, as well as protection against the harsh elements of the Far North’s tropical climate.

The major upgrade also opens up the possibility of hosting more national and international events at the Cairns Regional Tennis Centre.

“A roof over centre and surrounding Hotshots courts means we can improve the tennis experience all year round, as well as look to expand the events we are able to host at the centre.”

The roof is due to be built by 2020.