Port Chess Group plans next move

A SURGE in chess players down in Portarlington has brought together a new community of individuals and organisers believe it is down to more than just competitive spirit.

Portarlington Neighbourhood House’s facilitator Stan Rusiniak has noticed a rise in participants at the Portarlington Chess Club in recent months.

“Chess is a great way to meet people in and around Portarlington and the Bellarine,” Mr Rusiniak said.

“The club is for anyone who’s interested in chess.

“It doesn’t really matter what level you are. The club meets every Monday morning at the Portarlington Neighbourhood House.”

Club co-ordinator Hans Lemmens said despite the rise in participation, the group wants to continue bolstering its ranks.

“Our main goal has always been to bring the local community together and we’re really interested in trying to help beginners learn for free, it’s about the people,” Mr Lemmens said.

“You can play chess online and all that sort of stuff, but the nice thing about chess is that you can meet each other and chat to others playing.

“Although we are often quite boisterous, constantly laughing and stirring one another, this gives the players, beginners and the experienced alike, an opportunity to quiz and analyse one another throughout the game.”

One of the club’s founding members, Hugh Peters, said it can be an exciting to watch from the sidelines.

“Unlike football or other sports where, by watching, you don’t exactly take part, in chess you can quietly make your own computations and predictions as the game goes on,” Mr Peters said.

“You can bring yourself to the position of the players.”

For further information, contact the Chess Club at the Portarlington Neighbourhood House at either 5259 2290 or [email protected]