Another Successful Community Bank Nathalia Easter Tennis Tournament!

The 2024 Community Bank Nathalia Easter Tennis Tournament was a resounding success over the weekend, as the Tennis Club and surrounds burst into a hive of activity. Sunny skies and hot conditions greeted the 273 players who took to the courts. Entry numbers had increased yet again from last year. The tournament saw some entertaining tennis in all grades. This included high-quality hitting as well as some enjoyable social sets, all played on the beautifully prepared lawn surfaces. Off the court, live music, delicious food, cold drinks, choccy eggs, and general good times were all heartily indulged in.

Day 1 was a busy day of tennis; the men’s Open singles alone had 27 entries. Number 1 seed Andy Scott, returning for his second year from Overpark TC, was looking to go one better than his three set showdown loss in the final last year. Upon reaching the semi-finals, the remaining matches were scheduled for Saturday, with Velvet Tiger Michael Richards to square off against no.2 seed Grant Thompson, with rumored new VT signing Cody George playing Scott. In the Womens Open singles, Anna Tyshing powered her way through the pool stage of 4 entrants to set up a Sunday final against second placed Gabrielle Beaumont, Tyshing aiming to defend her crown from ‘23. Mens open doubles saw 12 pairings whittled down to 4, semis and finals scheduled for the Sunday. Womens open doubles had 3 pairings play some electric tennis against each other to see a final scheduled for Saturday. Junior tennis was played through out the day, resulting in a trophy to local player Lucy Daniel (14/U Mixed Gender Singles). Anyone who attended the canteen was dazzled by both the quality and range of items available. The delicious array was coordinated by Canteen Manager Sharon O’Brien (and Mum of local VT player Hannah). Sharon commented that she was pleased to be able to conriubute and was grateful for the many volunteers who gave so much of their time throughout the tournament.

A sea of doubles pairings took the courts while numerous spectators on the surrounds sought cooling shade. Zooper Doopers and sports drinks were sold out and the troops were sent to fetch more from IGA. A darts competition took place throughout the afternoon, and the board stayed up long into the evening to the delight of many. While the crowd enjoyed the spectacle of the Open finals, and Sponsors of the tournament enjoyed refreshments in the ‘Sponsors Marquee’ locals Aimee, Bella and Molly prepared and served delicious cocktails. Results of the Brereton’s Bakery Open finals were trophies to Scott after defeating Thompson in the Men's Singles, and to Hannah O’Brien & Ash Andrews for defeating Tyshing & Beaumont (Women's Doubles). Fertgrain Doubles Day local winners included Oliver & Charlie Sheehan (Mens Social C), Sue Vaughan & Helen Ginnivan (Womens B), and ‘Cocktail Concoctors’ Aimee Wilson, Bella Sheehan & Molly Coburn in a 3 for 2 (Womens Social C). While the crowd enjoyed a choice of food from Sandy’s Pop up Thai, Mick’s Pizza or club BBQ, Munroe hit the mark in the evening with some cool tunes. Big thanks to the Melbourne based folk-rock outfit for coming up for their second year - make sure to check them out wherever you get your music, and keep an ear out for new releases. Tennis tales were recounted and acquaintances rekindled while the crowd enjoyed the balmy weather long into the night.

As the Sunday sun was rising over the creek, Bron from Broken Creek Physiotherapy and Pilates led 14 keen participants in a recovery and stretch pilates session.

The cacophony of the dew removal mower, a family easter egg hunt, corellas squawking and country music playing from the clubhouse, all added a uniqe pilates experience. Soon afer play got under way in the Limo’s Mitre 10 Mixed Doubles day. Traditionally this day sees the courts full and once again locals and visitors alike got involved. The ‘handicap cup’ was well attended. In this event one player must use a hotshots raquet allowing for much fun and hilarity.

Congratulations to Judith Slattery & partner Brett Carter for winning their card of Social C.

The final of the Womens Open Singles saw Tyshing emerge victorious again, while Scott & partner Luke Treveil won the Open Mens Doubles after receiving a walkover.

Sunday night roast was a huge hit - big thanks to Mailbox Cafe Strathmerton for a great spread. DJ Double Fault returned for a song shuffle, with former club president Helen Ginnivan winning a cash prize with her chosen song.

By Monday the heat and taken its toll on many players and party goers. There were some late scratchings but still a lot of quality tennis was played in the round robin format, sponsored by Milking It Cafe. A record 12 entrants took to the courts in the A men’s round robin event. Long time attendee Cody George took out the final play off defeating James Tsorlinis. Hannah O’Brien capped off an impressive weekend by winning the Women’s A. With so many players and their families attending, accommodation was booked out around town, with Riverbank Caravan Park and Nathalia Motel & Holiday Park both at capacity. The Recreation Reserve was bursting at the seams with over 120 campers on site, many of whom commented that they missed seeing the Purples in action and look forward to 2025 and the next home game against Tonnie.

The weekend was a mammoth endevour and was successful in all aspects of tennis, food, fun & festivites.“To all of our volunteers and members, we thank you for everything you did to help, both in the lead up to the event, and throughout the tournament,” Club president Corina McLeod said of the volunteer efforts. “It just wouldn’t happen without you and we appreciate all that you have contributed to our little club. 

Many participants made mention and were thankful for the enormous contribution of tournament director Joe Nihill and his lieutenant Alex Bakogianis. The two undertook the difficult task of collating entries while navigating technical issues, and turned it into a smoothly scheduled tournament. Players were treated yet again to fantastic tennis courts, a testament to the hard work of the courts maintenance crew.

The club acknowledges all entrants. Those that return year after year to our little town have been integral to the success of the tournament. In 2025 the club will celebrate 100 years since the tournament began. The club aims to make this an entire community event and welcomes input from other community organisations. Watch this space for more details in the coming months