“Prior to the renovations, there was never a clean spot,” he said. 

Before and after photos on the Goulburn Club website show large holes in the back wall, peeled paint and numerous marks. 

So, one year ago, community members and players organised a fundraiser to repair the courts and encourage more people to pick up the sport.

After the closure of the squash courts in Bradfordville, players commuted to Canberra and Crookwell to participate in games.

NSW Masters Squash Association (NSWMSA) committee member and pro-active player Des Rowley says the courts are a forgotten piece of Goulburn’s sporting collective. 

“I heard a story of someone going into the store for a squash racquet and being told there weren’t any courts in the area,” Rowley said. 

Hookham, who strings and sells racquets, also said members outside of the sporting group questioned where he played.

There are 35 active squash players in the district. Around 20 travel to Crookwell on Tuesday night and 12 to Canberra on a Monday for competitions. 

“This facility we have here now are just as good as the courts in ACT or around NSW,” Hookham said. 

Rowley added it was a perfect sport for winter and encouraged people to get involved in the sport. Bookings can be made on the Goulburn Club website.