The Victorian Community Tennis Awards recognise Victoria’s on and off court success in a community tennis celebration. Congratulations to the following finalists for the Most Outstanding Club or Centre award!
Ferntree Gully Tennis Club
Ferntree Gully Tennis Club has shown strong leadership in inclusive and sustainable club development following completion of the Tennis Victoria Health Indicator Tool (HIT), supported by a clear 2025–2027 Strategic Plan focused on participation growth, financial sustainability and quality facilities.
Participation has increased through a broad mix of accessible programs, including Tennis Hot Shots, social and competition play, Cardio Tennis and Book‑a‑Court access. A standout strength is the club’s All Abilities Tennis program, which provides weekly opportunities for players with disability and clear pathways into Special Olympics participation, reinforcing a genuine commitment to inclusive tennis.
Inclusion is embedded across all areas of the club. Initiatives such as the Sunflower Hidden Disability program, Auslan training, completion of an Accessibility Audit and implementation of a Gender Equity Action Plan demonstrate best‑practice approaches to creating welcoming and safe environments. Importantly, inclusive values extend to leadership and volunteering, with people bringing lived experience of disability actively contributing to committee and coaching roles.
Strong partnerships underpin the club’s success. Collaboration with Prestige Tennis Academy supports high‑quality coaching and player pathways, while support from Knox City Council has enabled facility and accessibility upgrades. Community partnerships with Special Olympics, local service organisations and volunteer networks further strengthen participation and engagement.
Through strong governance, inclusive culture and community connection, Ferntree Gully Tennis Club continues to deliver meaningful participation outcomes and provides a welcoming environment where people of all abilities can play, belong and thrive, aligned with Tennis Victoria’s vision for inclusive, sustainable tennis clubs.
Mornington Tennis Centre
Following its Health Indicator Tool (HIT) assessment with Tennis Victoria, Mornington Tennis Centre has demonstrated how a clear strategic focus can translate into strong participation growth, inclusive programming, and sustainable operations.
A key strength of the centre has been its commitment to inclusion. Targeted initiatives such as the Tennis Australia Girls No Limits squads have led to significant growth in female participation, while ongoing Special Olympics sessions and hosting All Abilities Week have created accessible pathways for players of all abilities. These programs have strengthened community connection and encouraged long-term engagement with tennis.
Significant facility upgrades, supported by Mornington Peninsula Shire Council, have further enhanced the venue. The introduction of European Terre Davis clay courts and added spectator shading has improved playing quality, safety, and the overall experience for players and families.
Strong governance, a collaborative coach–club partnership, and alignment with Tennis Victoria and Tennis Australia initiatives continue to underpin the centre’s success. With growing competition teams, expanded school partnerships, and the hosting of international junior ITF events, Mornington Tennis Centre has established itself as a leading regional hub, providing clear pathways for participation, development, and performance while remaining welcoming and community focused.
Powlett Reserve Tennis Club
Powlett Reserve continues to set a strong benchmark as a welcoming, community‑focused tennis venue, guided by a clear vision to be the place people want to play, belong, and work. This vision underpins its strategic planning and ongoing investment in participation, facilities, and people.
Significant facility upgrades, supported by City of Melbourne partnerships, have enhanced the player and visitor experience, including court resurfacing, LED lighting, amenity upgrades, and improved social spaces. These improvements ensure the venue remains safe, accessible, and fit for a growing and diverse community.
Participation growth has been a key outcome. Powlett offers a broad and flexible program mix, from casual court hire and social play through to Tennis Hot Shots, junior and adult coaching, Cardio Tennis, competitions, and themed events. This pathway‑based approach has driven strong growth, with junior coaching up 39% and adult participation increasing by 20%, supported by an outstanding retention rate of 85%.
Inclusion is deeply embedded across all operations. Partnerships with schools and organisations such as Rally4Ever, VTA Foundation, Montague School, and Vic Tennis have broadened access to tennis for diverse communities. Strong alignment with Tennis Victoria has further strengthened inclusive practice through staff development workshops, mentoring opportunities, and strategic health checks.
Powlett’s emphasis on staff development and wellbeing is another standout. Ongoing professional development, clear career pathways, and strong leadership structures have helped build a passionate, skilled team committed to delivering high‑quality experiences on and off the court.
Through sustained participation growth, inclusive programming, strong partnerships, and a vibrant team culture, Powlett Reserve has evolved into a true community hub.
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