Locals Alice Withers and Alex Bridgeman featured well in the doubles during the Yarrawonga Easter Tournament.
Photo by
Les_Garbutt
The Yarrawonga Lawn Tennis Club’s annual Easter Tournament has once again delivered a major boost for the town, with 1,450 players descending on the region for four days of competition, connection and community spirit.
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Widely regarded as the largest tournament of its kind in Australia, the event saw close to 2,000 matches played across 59 courts, transforming the Yarrawonga precinct into a hub of activity across the Easter long weekend.
Players travelled from across the state and beyond, but as always, the tournament was about more than just tennis.
Ian Dimble featured in both singles and doubles.
Photo by
Les_Garbutt
The social atmosphere, friendly rivalries and long-standing traditions were on full display, with many participants returning year after year.
Perfect autumn weather ensured the tournament ran smoothly, with warm conditions keeping sunscreen and water bottles in high demand as players and spectators made the most of the weekend.
Local Taylah Chessells was successful in the 13 and Under division.
Photo by
Les_Garbutt
Top-Class Open Finals
This year’s Open Singles draws were among the strongest seen in over a decade, both in terms of depth and quality.
In the women’s final, Georgina Ruhrig delivered an outstanding performance to defeat multiple title-holder Nicole Mullen 6/0, 6/3. The match featured a number of high-quality rallies that kept the crowd engaged throughout.
The men’s final saw two-time champion Pat Fitzgerald take on local favourite Jack Bassett. Despite strong support for the home player, Fitzgerald’s experience proved decisive as he claimed a 6/2, 6/2 victory to secure his third consecutive title.
Easter Tennis Tournament Open Singles winners Georgina Ruhrig and Pat Fitzgerald.
Pat Fitzgerald defeated local favourite Jack Bassett in the Open Singles title.
Locals make their mark
Local participation remained a highlight of the tournament, with a strong showing across all grades.
Encouraging local players, particularly junior and Saturday morning participants, to get involved has been a key focus, and that was evident in the numbers taking to the courts.
A number of Yarrawonga players enjoyed success, with several taking home titles across junior, doubles and mixed events, much to the delight of the home crowd.
13/u Singles – Taylah Chessells
9/u Singles – Penny Perkins
D Grade Singles – Sam Davidson
17/u Singles – Xavier Chessells
A Grade Doubles – Sarah Govan / Krysten Boyle
D Grade Doubles – Billie Buerckner / Kiera Buerckner
17/u Doubles – Olivia Lewis / Ava Cox
15/u Doubles – Billie Buerckner / Kiera Buerckner
13/u Doubles – Taylah Chessells / Eliza Lawrence
B Grade Doubles – Grant Lewis / Cooper Khalil
B Grade Second Doubles – Luke Duncan / Matt Cerini
11/u Doubles – Ernie Buerckner / Nic Liddell
C Grade Mixed – Hayley Bennett / Ian Dimble
9/u Mixed – Beau Lawrence / Ainsley O’Brien
New event a crowd favourite
A new addition to this year’s schedule, the One Point Slam proved an instant hit. Inspired by a similar concept at the Australian Open, the fast-paced format drew a large and vocal crowd, creating a finals-like atmosphere.
A full field of 64 competitors took part, with Matt Cerini emerging as the inaugural winner after holding his nerve in the high-pressure format.
Volunteers the driving force
Behind the scenes, the tournament once again highlighted the strength of the Yarrawonga community.
Hundreds of volunteers contributed their time across the weekend, from preparing courts and grounds to coordinating matches, serving food and assisting in the tournament box. At the busiest point on Saturday, more than 20 people were working in the tournament box alone.
A special mention was made of the younger volunteers, whose efforts in assisting with tournament operations continue to play an important role.
Community support recognised
The playing surfaces were presented in excellent condition, thanks to the work of Head Greenskeeper Michael Sheahan and his team, who began their days before sunrise to ensure the courts were ready for play.
Local catering business Sweet and Sour Sisters again played a key role in keeping players and spectators well fed, supported by additional food vendors throughout the venue.
The club also acknowledged the ongoing support of its sponsors, particularly major sponsor Glanmire Park, whose contribution helps ensure the tournament continues to deliver high-quality prizes and facilities.
Looking ahead to 2027
With another successful tournament completed, planning is already underway for next year’s event. The 2027 Yarrawonga Easter Tournament is expected to once again attract a strong field, as the event continues to grow in both size and reputation.
