“I’m so happy. This is a wonderful facility that is great for not only the netball club, but also the rest of Moree sports clubs,” said club president Amber Brown.

Excited netball players and members of the public enjoyed a barbecue and round of netball at Ron Harborne Oval to celebrate the official opening.

The new facilities boast a raised, viewing platform, a multi-purpose canteen and office and a toilet block.

“The toilets are one of the most important additions to the courts. Before, netball players would have to walk across Harborne Oval to use the facility, and that cut into their game time. Having a toilet block so close to the court not only saves them a long trip, but adds to their game time,” said Amber.

Amber added that a lack of essential facilities in the past had led to some clubs choosing other grounds to play their matches.

“These facilities will bring more attention to the courts and hopefully the club will sign up more players.”

The club were able to raise the new facilities after securing a $64,000 grant from Holden last year. The Holden Home Ground Advantage Grant received more than 200 applications for the prized funds, and Holden Moree general manager Kendall Tait is confident the company made the right choice.

“Grants are a great way to lift spirits in the community. For me, being part of Moree on this level is fantastic.”

Kendall said she played plenty of netball during her school years, so understood first hand how new facilities could boost team morale.

“It’s great encouragement for the kids. If the court looks good, they feel good.”

She said the local response had only reaffirmed her view.

“Many of the employees at Holden have children, and just listening to how happy they are about the project shows me that the company has done the right thing.”