Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in Australia, with new competitions starting up every month but here on the Southern Downs and Granite Belt the sport is marking a very special milestone.
Southern Downs Pickleball Association celebrated their fifth birthday with a birthday cake, balloons, a lucky draw and a vigorous round robin competition at their WIRAC base.
Association president Helen O’Brien, who helped introduce the sport to the region, said the first Come and Try session was held in May 2019 with the group becoming incorporated later that year.
“Sessions have been held consistently every week since then, apart from a six month break during Covid restrictions,” she said.
“Early support from Warwick and District Tennis Association helped with grant applications to address the need for more equipment as the club grew.
“The six courts at WIRAC were full all night with 24 players from across the Southern Downs batting up and enjoying a full night of competition.
“The lucky draw of a paddle cover and new ball, donated by Inner Paddle Co, was won by Stanthorpe player Keith Barnett.
“We would also like to acknowledge Southern Downs Council who gave us a grant to purchase more equipment so we can host more players in each session, and store our equipment safely at WIRAC.”
She said Southern Downs Pickleball was thrilled to announce they had secured coach Karen Topp for dates in June to provide training focusing on skills development and team work.
“Karen will be introducing some drills and help develop good playing habits,” O’Brien said.
Two of the leading lights of the Association were recognised for their work to establish the burgeoning sport in the region.
The sport has also spread to Stanthorpe and Toowoomba in recent times as well with the three groups holding activities and competitions together.
Helen O’Brien, who brought the sport to the region and Ann-Marie Cutmore , who helped get it up and running, were recognised for their contributions by Pickleball Queensland late last year
O’Brien said the SDPA offers sessions on Wednesdays from 6-8pm and Sundays from 2.30-5pm. Contact Helen on 0429 065 175 for more details.
