LAUNCH & Interactive pickleball experience

Sydney came alive with the launch of an exciting new activation that speaks directly to the future of our CBD, our wellbeing and our night-time economy.

It was terrific to join Ollie Matthews, CEO of House of Pickle, Adam Mather-Brown, CEO of International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney) and Anita Mitchell the CEO of Placemaking NSW for the official unveiling of eight purpose-built pickleball courts on ICC Sydney’s Event Deck.

The Hon Steve Kamper MP, NSW's Minister for Lands and Property, Minister for Multiculturalism, Minister for Sport, and Minister for Jobs and Tourism addressed the audience before he and the business leaders in attendance enjoyed playing pickleball on the new courts at the ICC Sydney.

This is exactly the kind of placemaking our city needs.

By transforming underutilised space into a vibrant, welcoming destination, this initiative will bring more people into the CBD, encourage movement and connection, and promote a healthier mind, body and city. It will also generate new economic activity, not just during business hours, but into the evening, supporting hospitality, retail and local enterprise in and around Darling Harbour.

Pickleball is one of the world’s fastest growing sports, and this activation positions Sydney right at the centre of that global trend. With casual play, coaching, social rounds and corporate team-building on offer, these courts will be a genuine community hub and a new reason to come into the city.

A big well done to ICC Sydney, House of Pickle and Placemaking NSW for their leadership, vision and collaboration in delivering a project that delivers for people, place and the economy.

This is how we build a healthier, more connected and more vibrant Sydney.