From pineapple farm to tennis courts: Montville club rises from the dust

NewsCommunity

25 May

**Montville Tennis Club action from the 60s.**

There was a time when the facilities at the Montville tennis courts might best be described as the rough end of the pineapple.

But that changed on Sunday (May 23) with the opening of the new Montville Tennis Club Inc clubhouse.

Near-derelict clay and ant-bed courts, originally laid down in 1925 on an old pineapple farm, have been transformed from a dustbowl to pristine synthetic grass.

Starting in September 2018 with 14 members the club now boasts a membership of almost 90 and has seen Montville State School students relocate their tennis coaching there.

Recent completion of a tennis clubhouse built in 1925-style with pineapple wallpaper, wooden floor and VJ wall and ceiling linings.

“A handful of enthusiastic tennis tragics paid $5000 for Life Membership helped us get started to realise our vision of a diverse and inclusive tennis club that welcomes players of every standard just for the love and fun of tennis,” said Club president Wayne Parcell.

“We have generated community excitement and interest with young families, children, retirees and some who have never played tennis in their lives coming to the courts for the social interaction for the fun, the exercise and sheer joy of being a part of a new community activity, watching and playing tennis, no matter what your capability - everyone is welcome.

“Tennis is now played on the courts every day of the week and we are just getting started! We have so much more to do to create a long-lasting and sustainable legacy for our community.”

The club held an official opening of the clubhouse on Sunday May 23 featuring Chris Bond OAM and his wife Bridie Kean, both Paralympians who have played on the courts.

Andrew Wallace MP, Andrew Powell MLA and Councillor Winston Johnston joined local community leaders and club members and their families and many of the people and tradespeople who helped us create the tennis community.

Wayne acknowledged the support of club members, benefactors, the Montville Village Association Inc and the community amounting to more than $222,000 as well as grants totalling $54,000 from the Queensland Government and Council.

• For info phone or email Wayne on 0419 972468 or montvilletennisclub1925@gmail.com