28 March 2018 | Tennis Queensland

Redlynch Valley Tennis Club has been left devastated in the wake of Cyclone Nora, which swept through the region this week dumping more than 500mm of rain in some areas.

The four court club, situated 20 minutes west of Cairns, has suffered extensive damage after the weather system lifted up courts, wiped out fences and inundated the clubhouse.

“The flash flood that swept through Redlynch Valley has all but destroyed our fences, courts and infrastructure that we have built over the 20 year history of our club. We are a strong community based club and have formally commenced the rebuilding process, which is a credit to our committee and members,”said Club Secretary Jason Christopher.

“We have seen massive membership growth over the past two years and have established the club as a leading club in the FNQ region for both our junior program and integrated club events. It is unfortunate that this unforeseen disaster has occurred and is devastating for the club and local community,” he added.

Following the disaster, more than 30 members came to the club to help with the cleanup.

“Thanks to all those who have come down to the courts today, rolled up their sleeves and got stuck in. You are a great community. Obviously the damage is extensive and will take time to address. However as you have illustrated we are resilient and we will rebuild. Arrangements are being made for Club members to have access to tennis courts,” said Club President Phil Lindsay.

To help mitigate the ongoing financial impact of the damage, Tennis Queensland has offered the club the free use of four courts at the Cairns International Tennis Centre so it can continue coaching and fixtures.

A full assessment of the damage will be made next week, with the financial impact expected to reach as high as $400,000.

“The greater tennis community has also banded together to show their support by offering their facilities to our club during the rebuilding process. For that to occur financial funding is desperately needed and any assistance would be greatly appreciated,” said Christopher.