RAIN earlier in the day did not dampen the celebrations at Gloucester Sport & Recreation, in Hydeaway Bay, on Saturday afternoon.
Community support shone through as the club showcased their two new, dedicated pickleball courts and a third court on a half basketball court.
Cr Amanda Camm and Cr Gary Simpson, representatives for the area, showed great support for the future of pickleball.
Pickleball Association of Queensland Secretary Michelle Jones talked about what the sport can bring to an area such as Hydeaway Bay.
“Pickleball is all about creating community – on and off the court,” she said.
“This new facility will allow all players the opportunity to have a laugh, get some exercise and make meaningful connections that will last a lifetime.”
Following the formalities, the sun came out and Michelle was on hand to guide newcomers who wanted to try the new sport, while fourteen local picklers enjoyed open play on their new courts.
Pickleball has only been in Australia since 2016.
A combination of tennis, table tennis and badminton, pickleball has the attraction of being easy to learn, very social, inclusive and attractive to all age levels.
Originally from the US, Pickleball is now being played in all Australian States and currently there are 15,000 Pickleball Australia Association (PAA) members.
In Queensland alone, there are more than 30 affiliated clubs.
Photo:
Gloucester Sport & Recreation Association president Russell Muller awarding a plaque of appreciation to Lorraine and Bob Christiansen, who were instrumental in getting the pickleball courts built.
