The Hallidays Point Pickleball Club is bringing a whole new sport to the MidCoast region.
Over the past six months, the group and Council worked together to rejuvenate the old tennis courts in Wrigley Park in Taree.
Mayor Claire Pontin opened the new courts at the Barrington Coast Pickleball Challenge on Sunday 18 September.
Pickleball is a racket/paddleball sport that started in America. It encourages participation by players of all ages and abilities. The sport allows players to foster positive social interactions in a fun, active environment.
Pickleball began in Hallidays Point in 2019. After gaining 14 members, a club formed in November 2020.
The group meet on the Diamond Park netball court three times a week. The club has grown to over 70 members and takes part in state and national championships.
The club identified the need for a larger venue to host both local players and regional events.
The club and Council cleaned the surface and replaced fencing. Nine pickleball courts are now marked on the old Wrigley Park tennis courts.
The new centre court has increased width and length. This allows for wheelchair or hybrid events. The venue already provides adequate facilities including parking and a toilet block.
Hallidays Point Pickleball Club has already hosted a local tournament. Players came from Taree, Tuncurry, Forster, Old Bar and Hallidays Point.
The Pickleball Association of New South Wales is considering the site for a Level 1 sanctioned regional tournament in 2023.
Regular games at Wrigley Park began this month. People from Taree and surrounding communities are invited to join the club or give pickleball a go on Sundays from 3 – 5pm, weather permitting.
