By ANNA USHER

Another part of the lower north shore’s sporting history is about to come to an end.

Norths has informed members that it will close its squash courts at Cammeray in June, with the shutdown set for the end of the Pennants season. The club says this decision was “not made lightly”.

In a message sent to members this week, the club cited high debt levels and an ongoing review of its assets and activities “to ensure a strong future for all members”.

The club also mentioned increasing demand from its more than 2,500 Fitness Centre members, saying that turning the squash area into something else would help Norths serve more of its members.

One Norths player who has played at the Cammeray courts for over 15 years said the news was “extremely disappointing”.

“I have played at the Norths Cammeray courts for over 15 years and have enjoyed many nights of pennant and training there,” the player said on the club’s Facebook page.

“These courts are not just for members – they’re also a place where families, kids and schools can experience and learn the sport.

“Sydney has already lost too many squash courts, and once sporting facilities like this are removed, they are rarely replaced.

“It is also surprising given the recent upgrades to the courts and viewing area, including the new glass back wall and renovated gallery.

“Please reconsider this decision and keep squash available on the lower north shore for members and the wider community.”

The Cammeray closure comes at the same time as another major North Shore squash venue, the ten-court Willoughby Squash Club, is still set to be demolished after a court ruling allowed a childcare development to go ahead.

For the local squash community, it feels like another door is closing. Players are still upset about last year’s court decision to demolish ten courts for a 130-place childcare centre.

Former world number one Michelle Martin warned that losing courts and any disruption in their availability would be “disastrous” for the sport and the community that supports it.

Squash was a popular sport in Australia during the 1980s, with up to one million players at its peak, but both participation and court numbers have dropped over time.

More recently, national estimates show that squash is still played by many people. The Australian Sports Commission’s Clearinghouse summary reports that about 102,500 Australians aged 15 and over played squash at least once in 2024.

Norths said it recognised the impact on players, writing: “We understand and deeply regret the disappointment this decision will cause for our squash community. Please know that this is not a reflection on the value of squash or the contributions of its players. Rather, it is a step we must take to ensure the long-term viability of our Club.”