Six new True Blue Plexicushion courts are being constructed at the Domain Tennis Centre.
Plexicushion is the cushioned-acrylic surface used for the first time at Australian Open 2008.
“The courts will be identical to Melbourne Park and other state centres around Australia,” Domain Tennis Centre General Manager Graeme Bailey said.
“This will also enhance the Domain as the premier training and competition venue in the state for not only our top Tasmanian tennis talent but interstate competitors” Bailey said.
The Domain has a long and proud history with elite level tennis having hosted three Davis Cup ties, the Moorilla Hobart International and the Tasmanian Open.
The Tasmanian Open trophy has been held aloft by some of the greatest players to ever grace a tennis court including Margaret Court, Billy Jean King, John Newcombe, Arthur Ashe, Tony Roche and Fred Stolle.
“We have an incredible history and getting these new courts – the first change in hardcourts we’ve had in 15 years – will only help us to extend that,” Bailey said.
The work also ensures the Moorilla Hobart International will have the same surface as the other Australian Open Series events as well as the Australian Open.
“It is an added attraction to the world’s top players who know that if they come to Hobart they will be preparing on the same surface as the Australian Open as well as top level competition and all the other attractions of the event and this city,” Tournament Director Michael Roberts added.
The Moorilla Hobart International has in recent years has attracted the class of Serena Williams, Casey Dellacqua, Dinara Safina and Vera Zvonereva with five of the current top 10 players having played the event.
The Domain Tennis Centre, Hobart City Council and Tennis Australia are funding the work which is expected to cost close to $400,000.