Tennis club celebrates 30 years

Pearl Beach Tennis Club will celebrate its 30th anniversary with an open day on Friday, May 20, at the Pearl Beach Recreation Reserve.

The day will feature tournaments, prizes and games with a barbecue and drinks supplied.

The club was formed in 1979 with approval to construct a recreation reserve in Pearl Beach given by Council after several attempts were knocked back in the 1960s to 1970s, according to club president Mr Brian Worrall.

Approval for stage one of three was given in 1980, which saw the completion of court one, the picnic area, car park, children's playground and toilet block later that year.

Council requested the formation of a tennis club to manage the facilities, he said.

This was formed during construction, holding its first meeting on April 13, 1981.

"Of the original 15 committee members, Ruth Ridges and Paul Barclaire are still very much an active part of the club, which now consists of well over 100 regular players.

"The courts are used every day of the week by 10 groups plus coaching," Mr Worrall said.

Over the past three decades, other parts of the original plan were added including the second tennis court, a lawn bowling rink and an extra covered pavilion.

Regular resurfacing of all playing surfaces and repairs to fencing are also undertaken.

"This has kept the area in excellent condition, helping to entice continuous and growing use," said Mr Worrall.

"The healthy finances of the club, aided by the occasional grant from the State Government Sport and Recreation Department, Gosford Council, temporary loans from members and the large number of casual hiring from weekenders and holiday visitors have allowed us not to have to increase fees over the majority of this time, while keeping the maintenance up to the high standard expected," he said.

Media Release, 23 Apr 2011 Brian Worrall, Pearl Beach Tennis Club