And the plan is to build more and turn the twin towns into a centre of excellence for clay court training. Margaret spent months painstakingly researching the construction process. A number of fundraisers have been conducted with most of the work completed by generous locals on a voluntary basis.

And she says Tennis Australia has been watching every step of the way.

“Corporate interest has also been registered. Our area here at Forster Tuncurry could then become an Australia-wide centre of excellence for clay court training,” she added.

With Margaret driving the project there’s been some big names right behind her including John Alexander who is just as passionate about the need for proper clay courts in Australia.

“Currently there is only one Australian player in the top 100 of the men’s ATP rankings and that’s Lleyton Hewitt so we have to do something to turn this around,” explained Margaret.

While there are some clay courts in Australia, according to Margaret there are none that reach the standards with which our players will be faced when they venture overseas.

Some of the top competitions including the French Open (also known as Roland Garros)are played on clay.

Another driving force behind the campaign to build a complex of clay courts at Sporties Tuncurry (the plan is for seven in all) is Level 2 Coach and local Danny Biancardi.

His long association with the game means he mixes with some of the top names including Alexander who is now a top commentator, Todd Woodbridge whose name and record speaks for itself and Terry Rocavert a former top 100 who is now one of Australia’s best coaches.

The court completed just weeks ago is made up of various layers within a retaining wall. Bore water is retained in the gravel layer allowing moisture to move up and down as needed and avoiding the need for constant watering.

The top layer of red brick dust is only 2mm thick and holds the white plastic sight lines (these were imported from Germany). Plans are underway to hold an open day to celebrate the completion of the court.