PICKLEBALL is rising to new heights with a major venue transforming its rooftop events space into eight courts as the tennis-like sporting pastime grows in popularity.
International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney), managed by Legends Global, has opened the purpose-built pickleball courts as it seeks to foster deeper community engagement and event attendee wellbeing.
Operated by House of Pickle, a Sydney business that organises community sport, the courts offer casual play, coaching, social rounds, and events tailored for both community and corporate groups.
Anita Mitchell, chief executive of Placemaking, which manages Sydney’s harbourside locations, said: “This is a fantastic example of how we can reimagine public spaces to bring people together. The addition of pickleball courts on ICC Sydney’s Event Deck will create a dynamic hub for connection in the heart of the city.”
Fit-out works and installation have been completed, a spokesperson for ICC Sydney said, with the courts now open for bookings. They said initiative was aimed at promoting physical activity and mental wellbeing across diverse user groups.
Event organisers will also be able to enhance attendees’ experiences with opportunities for team building, exercise and, importantly, fun.”
– Adam Mather-Brown, ICC Sydney CEO
Local enterprise was also being supported through merchandise sales and F&B, including the activation of the House of Pickle Lounge.
ICC Sydney CEO Adam Mather-Brown added: “Our mission is to make a difference and activating the Event Deck delivers value to members of our community.
“Event organisers will also be able to enhance attendees’ experiences with opportunities for team building, exercise and, importantly, fun. This initiative reflects ICC Sydney’s commitment to innovation, wellbeing, and inclusivity – creating a space that is engaging and accessible.”
House of Pickle’s CEO, Ollie Matthews, said: “Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, and we’re thrilled to activate ICC Sydney’s iconic Event Deck with eight courts. Our goal is to make House of Pickle Darling Harbour a welcoming space for everyone – from first-timers to seasoned players.”
