Air-Conditioned Upgrade Marks New Era For Mackay Table Tennis

The Mackay Table Tennis Association has completed its most significant facility upgrade in almost 50 years, installing full air-conditioning within their hall — a move President Janice Kent says clearly sets the sport apart from many others in the region.

The hall, which opened in 1971 and was last significantly expanded in 1975, has long been a staple of the Mackay sporting landscape.

Janice says the latest upgrade directly responds to conditions many athletes know all too well.

“In Mackay, heat isn’t an inconvenience — it’s often the deciding factor in whether people can safely participate in sport,” Janice said.

“A lot of sports still rely on outdoor venues, large fans or ventilation and hope that conditions are manageable. We’ve taken a different approach.”

The new system delivers consistent cooling across the entire facility, eliminating the uneven airflow and heat pockets common in many indoor venues.

“This isn’t partial air-conditioning or cooling in select areas,” Janice said.

“Every table, every session, every player benefits from the same conditions — juniors, seniors, social players and competition athletes alike.”

Janice said the difference is immediately noticeable when compared to non-air-conditioned sporting environments.

“When people are choosing how to stay active in Mackay, they’re weighing up comfort, safety and sustainability,” she said.

“Heat stress, dehydration and fatigue are real issues, especially in summer. We’ve removed that barrier entirely.”

She said the upgrade allows players to focus on performance and enjoyment rather than survival.

“People shouldn’t have to endure extreme conditions just to stay active,” Janice said.

“Sport should challenge you athletically — not thermally.”

Importantly, Janice emphasised that comfort doesn’t come at a premium price.

“Compared to many other sports, table tennis is very reasonably priced, and that’s by design,” she said.

“Affordability is one of our core values. We recognise that cost matters to families, retirees and anyone trying to stay active without stretching their budget.”

She said the combination of full air-conditioning and low participation costs is rare.

“In many sports, you’re paying more while still playing in heat,” Janice said.

“Here, you get a modern, climate-controlled facility at a cost that remains accessible.”

The upgrade also strengthens the club’s contribution to the broader Mackay community.

“This isn’t just about table tennis players,” Janice said.

“It’s about increasing access to sport for people who may not feel comfortable playing outdoors, or in venues without proper climate control.”

She said the benefits extend to seniors, juniors, people returning to exercise, and those managing health considerations.

“Air-conditioning makes sport safer, more inclusive and more sustainable,” she said.

“That matters in a growing regional city like Mackay.”

The club’s Patron, Nigel Dalton MP, Member for Mackay, has supported the milestone, recognising the importance of modern community sporting infrastructure.

“Facilities like this, play a key role in keeping people active year-round,” Janice said.

“We’re proud to offer something that genuinely improves participation rather than limiting it.”

As Mackay continues to grow, Janice believes the upgrade positions table tennis as a clear alternative to heat-exposed sports.

“We’re not competing on who can endure the toughest conditions,” she said.

“We’re offering a smarter, safer and more comfortable way to stay active — without out pricing to both existing and new members.

Supplied by Janice Kent

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Photo supplied

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