THE Mildura Lawn Tennis Club is well and truly back in full swing and this Saturday they’ll be hoping to lay the foundation for future growth.
Its annual come-and-try day will feature an array of entertainment, including Australian tennis legend John Fitzgerald and both Australian Open trophies as part of the “AO on the Road” tour.
Coinciding with this year’s tour is the Rally as One program, a state government initiative that since 2020 has aimed to support tennis communities affected by natural disasters.
The program will bring with it additional funding for the club after it was devastated by floods last year.
A former Davis Cup captain, Fitzgerald said he was excited to be a part of the tour.
“AO on the Road is a fantastic initiative. It brings the prestige and excitement of the Australian Open to regional areas, while showcasing Victoria’s incredible tennis communities who do so much important work,” he said.
“This past year, when so many communities have been hit hard by devastating floods, tennis communities have come together to support one another and to rebuild. It’s wonderful that we can bring the trophies to these areas and come together to celebrate their resilience.”
Other activities included at the event will be Hot Shots Tennis, a fastest serve competition, social tennis, free court hire, food and drink, live music, a raffle fundraiser, giveaways and a jumping castle.
MLTC president Aaron Wilkie expected a good turnout and encouraged anyone to come along.
“Really it’s to get people back playing tennis and let everyone know we’re back up and running and a little bit of fundraising for the club, too,” he said.
“With John coming down as well, it’s really good, we’re hoping him and the trophy’s can help to bring a big crowd.”
Wilkie said the Rally as One program would assist the club over the next few months.
“So our Hotshots program is going to be free until Christmas time, we’ll also be running half-price ball fees on Saturday for juniors and seniors, and also an eight-week program on Wednesday’s for out twilight program which will be free … as I mentioned it’s really just to get people back on the court,” he said.
“They’re supporting us by providing equipment, nets, balls et cetera, which we’re grateful for.”
The club’s come-and-try day is this Saturday between 9am and noon at the Mildura Lawn Tennis Club.
