$280k upgrade for PCYC court surface

Users of PCYC Gunnedah have been floored by almost $280,000 in improvements planned for the indoor basketball court – one of the centre’s biggest overhauls in 40 years.

A new impact-cushioned, synthetic floor system is set to replace ageing wooden panels at the View Street facility.

It is believed to be the first major upgrade of the court surface since the building’s construction in 1983.

Work is set to begin as early as the next school term on the project which will benefit from $251,442 in NSW government funding. PCYC (Police Citizens Youth Clubs) NSW is also contributing $28,000 to the upgrade.

Gunnedah club manager Jessica Blair said the existing court surface is showing the effects from decades of “wear and tear”.

She said some parts of the court are exposed and can be hazardous for patrons.

“This will make it safer for everyone and a better playing experience,” Jess said.

Multiple line markings will also allow for the reintroduction of Futsal, volleyball, netball and new court activities such as pickleball – a cross
between tennis and badminton.

Jess said the sport is adaptable to all ages but can be particularly beneficial to older people because of its “low-impact” nature.

In addition to the new flooring, the upgrade will also feature new basketball hoops for the main arena and mechanical day-night blinds for use during laser tag and children’s discos.

Construction is expected to take about one month to complete and staff aim to minimise disruption to families during this time.

Mitigation measures include undertaking the project during the school term and hosting PCYC activities in other areas around town.

“It is important we continue to service the community,” Jess said.

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson congratulated the team at PCYC and said the court replacement was a big win for young people in the Gunnedah community.

“The PCYC does an outstanding job providing an outlet for young people in Gunnedah, keeping them engaged and active,” Mr Anderson said.

“That is why we continue to support the club when they identify a need for an upgrade of their facilities.”

PCYC NSW chief executive Dominic Teakle said the youth charity serves communities across the state and is excited for the upcoming upgrades.

“This will provide further opportunities for the Gunnedah community with the upgrade to the existing sports court, to continue to bring new and well-run court sport activities to the area,” he said.

PCYC, a registered charity now in its 85th year, operates 66 clubs across the state, with more than 95,000 members and 63,000 youth members, allowing police to engage with community members through sporting, recreational and educational activities.