St Arnaud Pickleball Sessions: Following a successful introduction, ongoing pickleball sessions will be held at St Arnaud Sports Stadium on Wednesdays at 10 a.m. The Northern Grampians Shire Council’s Thrive 50+ Healthy Ageing Hubs team will run the sessions, which are free and provide all equipment.
Easy to Learn and Fun for All
Pickleball combines elements of tennis, table tennis, and badminton. It is played with a paddle and a small perforated plastic ball on a badminton-sized court. Players can compete in singles or doubles, and the game is easy for beginners to pick up.
Mayor Karen Hyslop said the first come-and-try event was well-attended.
“It was great to see people of all abilities and fitness levels come along and give pickleball a go,” (Mayor Karen).
Participants praised the session. Tracey said,
“I wasn’t sure my knees would be able to cope with the game, but I felt really good and had so much fun.” Linda added,
“I had physio on my leg the day before and thought I’d just pop in to see what the hype was all about. I loved it. I played and felt great.”
Expansion and Future Plans
Cr Karen Hyslop said after-hours sessions could be arranged if there is enough interest. People can contact the Thrive team at 5358 8700 for more information.
The council introduced the sessions following the sport’s success in Stawell, organized with Pickleball Victoria and the Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly. Stawell Sports and Aquatic Centre continues casual sessions on Tuesdays 10 a.m.–noon, Thursdays 5–7 p.m., and Saturdays 9:30–11:30 a.m. Sessions cost $5 per person with no booking required.
The council is also exploring the possibility of a formal competition at Stawell Sports and Aquatic Centre in the future.
News in Brief: St Arnaud Pickleball Sessions
Ongoing pickleball sessions are held at St Arnaud Sports Stadium on Wednesdays at 10 a.m., free for all and with equipment provided. Mayor Karen Hyslop said participants of all abilities enjoyed the game. Similar sessions continue at Stawell Sports and Aquatic Centre, and a formal competition is being considered.
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