Wednesday, 12 August 2026


Constituency questions

Pascoe Vale electorate


Anthony CIANFLONE

Pascoe Vale electorate

 Anthony CIANFLONE (Pascoe Vale) (14:34): (1749) My constituency question is for the Minister for Community Sport. How is the Victorian Labor government supporting local community grassroots sporting clubs across Merri-bek, including via the Merlynston Tennis Club? On 20 ‍November 2025 I had the privilege to host representatives from the iconic Merlynston Tennis Club here at Parliament for the Australian Open showcase. It was a pleasure to welcome Ron Morton, the president; Antonio De Fanis, the head coach; Lucas Arnold, a 13-year-old player; and Max Arnold, an 11-year-old junior player for a wonderful afternoon, where they got to serve it up with the Minister for Sport, Minister Dimopoulos; John Fitzgerald OAM, the former world number one; Jelena Dokic, the former world number four; and Craig Tiley, the long-time Australian Open director. The Merlynston Tennis Club was established in 1946 and has successfully provided senior, junior, social and community pathways for locals to get fit, healthy and active for over 80 years now. Following an extensive renovation and upgrade, which was opened last year, the club’s membership has now doubled, with 13 night teams, seven junior teams and new Saturday afternoon teams. Their coaching program has gone from 40 to around 160 adults and children. Despite this growth, the club proudly continues to remain a family-oriented club. I would welcome the minister’s advice on other opportunities for Victorian government support.