$113 million plea revealed as Brisbane faces danger of losing Olympic tennis to Melbourne
Updated . First published at
Tennis Australia is lobbying for Pat Rafter Arena to undergo a $113 million upgrade on the runway to Brisbane 2032 — and tennis could be held in Melbourne if its pursuit is unsuccessful.
The findings of the 100-day Brisbane 2032 infrastructure review commissioned by the Queensland government won't be revealed until March 25.
But Tennis Australia has made its belief clear that Pat Rafter Arena, in its current condition, is not fit for purpose for Olympic and Paralympic tournaments, and declared Melbourne Park may need to host tennis if the cries of the governing body fall on deaf ears.
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Tennis Australia is pushing for additional courts as well as a new 3000-seat arena to complement the existing 5500-seat venue.
The governing body's stance was reported on Nine's Weekend Today on Saturday and confirmed by Wide World of Sports.
A statement attributed to a Tennis Australia spokesperson was provided to WWOS.
"The Queensland Tennis Centre (QTC) is one of Australia's most iconic tennis venues, playing a crucial role in the development and promotion of the sport at both the national and international levels," the statement said.
"As the only Queensland venue capable of hosting the Olympic and Paralympic tennis events in 2032, the QTC is crucial to the success of the Games and we believe it should be held there.
A general view of Pat Rafter Arena. Getty
"However, it currently does not meet the necessary standards.
"That's why Tennis Queensland is advocating for additional government funding to upgrade the facility as part of the Olympic review process, and if unsuccessful, we would consider hosting it in Melbourne."
The statement said the project would deliver "significant economic benefits" for Queensland, including "increased tourism, job creation and local spending".
The statement also said a revamped centre would "inspire future generations of tennis players and fans".
Tennis Australia boss Craig Tiley. Getty
"We have been working closely with Tennis Queensland to support their vision to keep the Games in their state, which has also been supported by the International Tennis Federation (ITF), the Brisbane 2032 Organising Committee and Stadiums Queensland," the statement said.
It will also be revealed on March 25 whether a new $3.4 billion stadium will be built at Victoria Park, to host athletics during the Games as well as Brisbane Lions matches and international cricket for decades to come.
The national governing bodies for swimming, artistic swimming, water polo and diving co-signed and delivered a submission in a bid for a new $650 million aquatic centre.
