BATHED in a sea of pink, purple, and autumn sunshine, the courts of the Wauchope Tennis Club came alive on Saturday, 28 March as players and spectators gathered for the annual Purple Pickleball Tournament, part of the much-loved Lasiandra Festival.
The event, previously postponed due to poor weather, is a highlight of the festival’s program, and brought together a mix of seasoned players and enthusiastic newcomers.
Participants embraced the festival spirit with many donning vibrant outfits that matched the jacaranda-inspired theme synonymous with Lasiandra celebrations.
“The weather was perfect,” Helen Garrett, Pickleball Coordinator at Wauchope Tennis Club, said post-event.
“The smiles, enthusiasm and atmosphere were amazing.
“What a way to showcase and celebrate our community spirit that Wauchope Tennis Club and Pickleball is known for.”
While not a stop on the professional pickleball circuit, the tournament carried a lively energy that reflected the sport’s rapid grassroots growth across the Mid North Coast.
Matches unfolded throughout the morning across a series of social and semi-competitive rounds within five doubles divisions.
Although the atmosphere was relaxed, friendly rivalries echoed between games, with many members of the local club, as well as Port Macquarie PCYC and Westport Tennis Club, enthusiastically egging each other on.
Ultimately, after multiple rounds of quick-fire games aimed at scoring as many points as possible, each category champion was crowned: Riley Best (Advanced), Brendan Hansard (Upper Intermediate), Laura Robertson (Lower Intermediate), Julia Grey (Novice), and Matt Cosgrove (Beginner).
Organisers described the day as a resounding success, pointing to strong participation numbers and an inclusive environment that welcomed players of all skill levels.
The club had many people to thank including Coach Aaron Johnson for facilitating the smooth running and flow of the day, as well as all volunteers who assisted.
By Rikki WALLER
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