Historic moment as Geraldton Tennis Club - one of Australia’s oldest - turns 150

The oldest tennis club in Geraldton and possibly Australia, the Geraldton Tennis Club, will be celebrating its 150th year. While the Royal Kings Park Tennis Club, founded in 1899, is sometimes credited as the birthplace of tennis in WA, the Geraldton club had already been operating for more than 20 years at that point. Established in 1872 the club predates the world’s oldest tennis tournament held in Birmingham in 1874 to make it one of the oldest outdoor clubs in the world. Club president Tom Powell said while the club had undergone many changes since then he is proud of the rich history it represents. “The club has moved from its original location, modified and adapted to the many challenges it’s been presented over the years, but still continues to grow strong,” he said. “We can be proud of where we are today and what’s been achieved over the last 150 years.” From humble beginnings, the Geraldton Tennis Club now maintains 23 grass courts and two hard courts. Its official birthday will be on October 15 and to celebrate the milestone the club will host a special reunion event. An open invitation is extended to current and past players and members from across Western Australia to be part of the celebration. “It’s really an opportunity for people who have been connected to the club at some time in the past to come and celebrate with us,” Mr Powell said. “Anyone who has been a player or a member is invited to attend. It will be a great opportunity for people across different generations to reconnect, reminisce and have a great social day.” The reunion will be held in the afternoon and includes guest speakers, historical displays and memorabilia and afternoon tea. The event will be officially opened by Deputy Mayor Jerry Clune, and feature veteran guest speakers, Malcolm Flett, Merv Austic and John Sewell. If you would like to attend, RSVP to Lorelle Young, event coordinator, on 0428 230 003 or lorelle26@hotmail.com.