Record racquets have a hit at queer tennis comp

CLOSE to one hundred queer community members and allies filled Tennis Ballarat’s indoor centre in Sebastopol over the weekend to have a hit on the court.

The sold-out event saw the return of the LGBTIQA+ circuit competition, known as the

Grand Slam at Australian Open level, across Saturday and Sunday.

Tennis Ballarat events coordinator Leah Ashton said the event marked another year of growth for the competition in the region.

“We had over 90 entries which is a record going from last year’s being 60 people which was big also,” she said.

“We have 12 indoor courts and they were all full at all

times playing singles and doubles.

“Both days we started from 9am, the first day they finished at 7pm and the second it was about 5.30pm, 6pm.

“Other than the finals, those courts were full the entire time.

“This started as one day with about 30 to 40 people so it keeps getting bigger.”

The local LGBTIQA+ competition has been running each year since before the pandemic, and started as a single-day competition.

Ms Ashton said the event has benefited more than just the local queer community.

“The visitors come mostly from Melbourne and surrounds and support the community so much,” she said.

“They come and stay in the area and support local businesses.

“It’s great for the community and it’s one of our favourite events in our calendar. It’s a really great vibe in the tennis centre as well.

“The event showcases Ballarat really well. The players went out to Piano Bar on Saturday night afterwards.

“They’re really embraced by the community and they really feel that.”