Stars of yesteryear reunite at new-look courts
SOME the most influential names in the history of netball in the Far North came together for a reunion yesterday at Cairns Netball.
Cairns Netball life members and founding members, including Heather McLaren, Jill Fowler, Fran Kilfoy, Esme Pitt, Carol Duncan, Susan Moore and Drina Keller were on hand to have lunch and look at the redeveloped courts, some for the first time.
The Martyn St courts received a $6.2 million upgrade which includes new administration facilities and amenities, as well as the additional courts, partially funded by the State Government and Cairns Regional Council.
Pitt, who represented Queensland in her playing days, said it was special to come together as a group.
“This is the first time I have ever seen these courts, they are excellent,” Pitt said.
“The game of netball is so different now. It is so fast and the rules have changed since I first played.
“It was a big thrill when I represented Queensland when I played.”
Drina Keller, who coached Cairns representative teams, has seen the game grow since she was last involved.
“They are fabulous, the complex is fantastic,” Keller said.
“I was last involved about 15 years ago. It has grown in leaps and bounds. Everyone has done a mighty job to get netball running the way it is.”
Cairns Netball Operations Manager Kym Mcphee-Smith said it was important to recognise the history of the game.
“This is the first time they have seen the new courts and facilities as a group,” McpheeSmith said.
“It was great to catch up and hear how things have changed and evolved from them to now.
“Everyone is really pleased to see how netball has grown since they began.”