Seniors Tennis group
A group of about 40 Healesville tennis players gathered at a local private residence on Friday 6 December.
The purpose was to enjoy each other’s off- court company by way of a Christmas break up party.
A barbecue lunch accompanied by a fine array of appetising salads and desserts was enjoyed by all.
Some drinks were had and some war stories were told.
The particular playing styles on court ‘demeanour’ of several players was humorously remarked upon in the course of a welcoming address by the group’s most senior player, Bryn Jones (92 years old).
Amidst the celebrations of another year’s tennis, there was a particular purpose to this gathering.
The purpose was to recognise and celebrate the work of a stalwart of Healesville Tennis Club, Peter Brown.
Peter is the convener of the seniors tennis group.
A sprightly man of 80 and over, Peter’s court craft and skill still makes him a formidable opponent.
But it was for his tireless volunteer work that the group particularly wanted to recognise on this occasion.
The group plays regularly on Tuesdays and Fridays starting at 9am in the warmer months and 9.30am otherwise, and such is the dedication and and enthusiasm of the group that play continues come hail rain or shine.
But like most voluntary operations, it has to be organised and supported.
For many years now, Peter has been the friendly face to greet you when you arrive at the court, organising the teams, the post play morning tea but also the man who is last there, cleaning the clubrooms, removing the rubbish and securing the premises when the day is done.
And if lawns need mowing, gardens need attending or indeed any other aspect of court maintenance is required, Peter will be quietly devoting his time and labour to do it, with an infectious smile thrown in for good measure.
In recognition of his unstinting work and welcoming presence, the group organised the presentation of a special certificate to Peter, to which was added a gift voucher to a local hostelry and, perhaps the greatest treat of all, Peter was presented with his favourite means of sustenance, a family meat pie.
Peter is a man of few words but when called upon to do so spoke from the heart of his gratitude for what was done in his honour and of the vital role that the group plays in his life.
It was a heartwarming occasion for all those present.
Whilst it is true that the demographic of the group is ‘senior’, the age range sometimes dips into those in their 30s and 40s.
The injection of such youth and indeed any this ‘new blood’ is always welcome.
If you wish to enjoy a good standard of [doubles] tennis then please consider joining the Healesville Tennis Club (website: healesvilletc.org.au) and turn up ready to play on a Tuesday or Friday.
Peter and his infectious smile will be there to greet you.
Midweek Ladies tennis
In other tennis news, the midweek ladies won their Section 3, Grand Final against Park Orchards last week.
As a result they will be promoted to Section 2 next season.
The Healesville Tennis Club has been very successful this year in promoting ladies tennis, with the setting up of a Monday morning social hit for ladies of all abilities.
Advertising in local shops, community noticeboards and social media, we have welcomed many new ladies to the club.
Some of them are now also playing competition for the first time on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
You can check the Healesville Tennis Club website (healesvilletc.org.au) for all the details if you are interested in joining us.
