24 October 2025 | Tennis Victoria

Few people have given more to regional tennis than Heather Lees, whose remarkable 60-year involvement in the sport, including 39 years of official service, has made her one of the true cornerstones of the Goulburn region tennis community.

Affectionately known as “Mrs Tennis,” Heather’s dedication has spanned countless roles across the Shepparton Junior Tennis Association (SJTA), Shepparton & District Tennis Association (SDTA), Shepparton North Tennis Club, and the Victorian Country Tennis Association (VCTA). Her leadership, organisation, and genuine care for others have shaped generations of players and volunteers alike.

Heather’s service began at Shepparton North Tennis Club, where she served as Secretary and Treasurer from 1978 to 1987 and coordinated junior teams for around 15 years. Her commitment to developing young players extended through her long involvement with the SJTA, including terms as President, Vice President, Treasurer, Registrar, and Public Officer. Over more than three decades, she worked tirelessly to ensure competitions ran smoothly, often managing administrative duties, registrations, and events simultaneously.

At the SDTA, Heather’s 19 years as Secretary and continued service as a committee member and Member Protection Information Officer highlight her enduring commitment to tennis governance and community care. Beyond Shepparton, her influence was present statewide through her work with the VCTA, where she has been a committee member since 1985, a Junior Squad Coordinator for over 20 years, and a Goulburn Region delegate.

Heather’s contribution to Tennis Victoria’s Country Week is legendary, she was instrumental in managing venues, organising teams, and ensuring smooth operations, both on and off the court. She would often play matches before stepping seamlessly into administrative duties, embodying the spirit of grassroots tennis.

A Life Member of Shepparton North Tennis Club, SJTA, and SDTA, Heather was also recognised with the Tennis Victoria Country Champion Award in 2016 for her outstanding service.

Heather’s story is one of quiet leadership and unwavering community spirit. Whether mentoring junior players, coordinating regional squads, or welcoming families into the sport, she has done it all with humility and warmth. Supported throughout by her husband Doug, Heather’s dedication has left an indelible mark on Victorian tennis.

Her recognition with a Tennis Victoria Highly Commended Service Award is a fitting tribute to a lifetime of passion, generosity, and love for the game, qualities that have truly made her the heart and soul of Shepparton tennis.