Chance for netball facelift

Monbulk Football Netball Club's Shayne Broekhof, Dave Sands and Jamie Sands are pleased with Casey MP Tony Smith's funding pledge for the netball court. 104615 Picture: EMMA SUN

By EMMA SUN

ONE of Yarra Ranges’ “worst netball courts” may finally get a makeover in the coming months.
The netball court at Monbulk Reserve has an asphalt surface and a shelter only big enough to fit a few players to protect against weather.
But that is set to change following a $15,000 pledge by Casey MP Tony Smith, to go towards the construction of shelters and resurfacing.
Monbulk Football Netball Club president Dave Sands said the money would mean a lot to the club.
“We’ve only got one little shelter around the court and with the resurfacing, we won’t have the water sitting around on top, so it’ll be more attractive for our girls to play,” he said.
“The girls are really looking forward to it and it’ll bring us more in line with most of the other clubs in their competition that had a bit of work done to their courts.
Netballer Jamie Sands agreed.
“We’re very excited because it’ll be a lot safer, this is probably the worst court,” she said.
The contribution will be combined with $15,000 from Yarra Ranges Council, which will manage the project in conjunction with the Monbulk Football Netball Club.
Mr Smith congratulated the netballers for the dedication to their sport.
“An upgrade will enable them to play to a high standard and no doubt attract new players in the years ahead,” he said.
“They are also dedicated to their broader community, currently undertaking fund-raising for improvements at the club, as well as for the Cancer Council.”