Open season’s secret security

AUSTRALIAN Open organisers will continue to draw on “covert’’ security resources to protect fans ahead of the opening of the first grand slam of the season.

With the threat of domestic terror now a bitter reality for Melbourne, tournament director Craig Tiley conceded yesterday the safety of patrons remained a key objective.

“(Fans) will see bag checks, they will see a strong presence of our security agencies and Victoria Police and the Federal Police,’’ Mr Tiley said. “But what they won’t see is the covert resources that we have in- vested in significantly to ensure the safety of our fans which we can’t talk specifically about.

“But that remains a priority and we are very happy with all of the communication we have had with all of the agencies, the Federal Agencies, security agencies and police.”

It comes as almost one million fans are expected to head to Melbourne Park to make the most of the tennis action when it begins on January 15. French favourite Jo Wilfried Tsonga, a 2008 finalist, was on hand yesterday for the launch of the Australian Open silverware.

World No. 1 Rafael Nadal was among the tennis stars who trained on-site yesterday.

Acting Minister for Sport Philip Dalidakis said yesterday the State Government announced $271.55 million in the Victorian Budget 2017/18 to complete the third stage of the Melbourne Park redevelopment.

The redevelopment will feature a new 5000-seat show court arena, new function and media centre and improved patron facilities, ensuring the Australian Open will remain in Melbourne until at least 2036.

“The Australian Open gets bigger and better every year and it’s the perfect way to kick off Melbourne’s packed calendar of sports and major events for 2018,’’ Mr Dalidakis said.