Qualicum Beach Pickleball Club Demands Dedicated Pickleball Courts: In a recent development that has brought the need for dedicated pickleball facilities into sharper focus, the Qualicum Beach Pickleball Club (QBPC) is rallying for support. A recent incident where extra lines were drawn on a tennis court in Qualicum Beach has shown the club’s call for purpose-built pickleball courts.
QBPC co-president Sandi Reed clarified that the club had no involvement in the incident but expressed hope that the Town of Qualicum Beach will take this situation as a serious indicator of their needs.
“It just underscores the need for our own dedicated outdoor pickleball courts. So, I am hoping council would move a little faster on that.” – (Reed)
Efforts and Funding
The QBPC made their pitch to the town in 2023, proposing the construction of designated pickleball courts and offering to contribute financially. In response, the town council devised a plan to build the courts on a town-owned property south of the Qualicum Beach skatepark. Funds were earmarked in the 2024 budget, with $85,000 allocated by the council and a matching amount expected to be raised by the QBPC.
However, Reed admitted that fundraising efforts are still underway and that the target amount remains elusive. She also noted that the projected cost for the courts might increase as time progresses.
Current Facilities and Challenges
During the summer, the QBPC has primarily used the indoor facilities at the Qualicum Beach Curling Club. While grateful for this temporary arrangement, Reed pointed out that the costs associated with renting the curling club are significantly higher compared to the summer rates.
“That’s all we could get, six sessions and they’re pretty expensive. It’s way more than we were paying for the entire summer at the curling club. Come October, the RDN (Regional District of Nanaimo) will be taking over the Civic Centre and will offer their pickleball there.” – (Reed)
As the QBPC continues to work towards its fundraising goal, it remains hopeful that increased community support and municipal action will soon make dedicated pickleball courts a reality in Qualicum Beach.
News in Brief: Qualicum Beach Pickleball Club Demands Dedicated Pickleball Courts
The Qualicum Beach Pickleball Club (QBPC) is intensifying its push for dedicated outdoor pickleball courts following a recent incident where extra lines were drawn on a tennis court. QBPC co-president Sandi Reed highlighted this as evidence of the urgent need for proper facilities.
The town council has set aside $85,000 for the courts, with the QBPC expected to match this amount. Currently, the club is struggling to raise the necessary funds. In the interim, they are renting indoor space at the Qualicum Beach Curling Club and will soon move to the Civic Centre for limited sessions.
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