A hidden gem, a tennis court with a rich history, is at the heart of a local battle for preservation. This is the story of a court that birthed an Australian legend, and the fight to keep it alive.
A Court Fit for a Legend
In a quiet street in Rockhampton, a clay court stands as a testament to the power of sport and the potential within every community. This court, built by Roy Laver for his sons, has an incredible story to tell.
Dr. Kate Kirby, an academic with a passion for sporting places, was amazed to discover this hidden gem. Despite being the birthplace of an Australian sporting icon, Rod Laver, the court has remained largely unknown for over eight decades. It's a place where anyone with initiative can grab the key from a nearby grocery store and step onto a piece of history.
But here's where it gets controversial...
Despite its significance, the court lacks official heritage protection. About 15 years ago, the old Laver home was sold and moved, with the new owners unaware of its importance. Dr. Kirby believes this court represents the idea that Australia's best athletes can emerge from anywhere, not just metropolitan areas with top facilities.
Rod Laver himself confirms that the court was a labor of love and a strategic move to ensure his athletically gifted sons shared his passion.
"This time, we fitted out our home court for night play... Any of us kids who broke a bulb with a lob or smash was in for it," Laver wrote.
The court became a hub for local players, including future grand slam champion Mal Anderson. Even the youngest Laver boy, Rod, found his way onto the court, developing his reflexes and footwork by hitting against a wonky wall.
And this is the part most people miss...
The most fateful visitor to the court was Charlie Hollis, a tennis coach who would change Laver's life. It was under the glow of 1500-watt bulbs that Laver and Hollis first hit together, a moment that would shape Laver's future.
Today, promising juniors can still experience this rare clay court in Rockhampton.
Sue Young, a custodian of the court and member of the Rod Laver Tennis Club, speaks passionately about its significance. She believes it's the only clay court available in the community, offering a unique playing experience.
"We wanted it to be very accessible... Some people like to say Melbourne has the RLA, but we have the RLC here in Rockhampton," Young says.
But there's a catch...
As the older generation of club members ages, there's concern about the court's future. Young worries about finding younger people interested in maintaining the court, which requires four to five hours of work each week to keep it ready for play.
Dr. Kirby proposes a heritage listing that preserves the court's function and accessibility while preventing alterations or development. She aims to focus on getting it listed at the Queensland state level, given Laver's reputation and the court's cultural value.
Mayor Tony Williams supports the idea, recognizing the court's historical significance and its potential to showcase Rockhampton's sporting legacy.
So, what's next for this hidden gem?
Sue Young and the volunteers at the Rod Laver Tennis Club will continue their fight to preserve this piece of history.
"We can only hope and keep pushing... Hopefully, in another 50 years, it's still here," Young says.
What do you think? Should this court be preserved for future generations? Share your thoughts in the comments!
