The rich history of the Wellington Gippsland Tennis Association was relived at a gala dinner recently held at the Sale Greyhound Club, marking 100 years of competition and community involvement.
The evening brought together players, volunteers, life members and supporters for a night of reconnection and shared stories as the association celebrated its centenary milestone.
As part of the official proceedings, Lifetime Player Awards were presented to members recognising 30, 40, 50 and 60 years of service to the game.
Those honoured for 30 years of play were Margaret Anderson, Colleen Geyson, Jenny Geishan, Tracey McConnell-Henry, Michael Luke, Jenny Luke, Jaclyn Hamilton, David Taylor, Jenny White, Alison Alexander, Anthony Glynn, Lisa Harrison, Kim Dennis, Leonie Peel, Evelyn Bermingham, Sharon Mogridge and Peter Chappell.
Recipients recognised for 40 years included Michelle Allman, Debbie Iseppi, Robin Lowe, Kerri Brown, Dianne Sunderman, Sheryl McMillan, Michael Caffrey, Ros Allman, Wendy Fuessel, Karen Duffield, Julie Foat and Emma Nowak.
Peter Burton, Leanne Wilson, Debbie Kaandorp, Phil Carter, Vicki Smyth, Anthony Booker, John Garrett and Alecia Dignan were also acknowledged for long and distinguished careers spanning 40 years or more.
The loudest applause of the evening was reserved for Chris McMahon, who has played the sport for more than 60 years.
