Kiama Table Tennis Club recently played host to the Goulburn TT Club, creating a perfect blend of sport and social interaction. 

The Kiama TT Club, located at the Kiama Leisure Centre, extended a warm welcome to the Goulburn TT Club on a sunny Saturday 23 September. The event brought together around 50 participants, with half hailing from Kiama and the other half from Goulburn.

Kiama TT Club left no stone unturned in ensuring everyone's comfort, providing not only the venue but also a delightful morning tea, refreshments throughout the day, and a BBQ lunch. The camaraderie didn't stop on the table; it extended to dinner at the Kiama Leagues Club after the event concluded.

One of the unique aspects of the Kiama TT Club is the diversity of its members. Ranging from 18-year-olds to octogenarians, it's a place where age is no barrier to enjoyment. Don Brown, the club's president and a long-time player, is living proof of the passion that drives members.

The tournament witnessed intense yet friendly competition between the two clubs, with Goulburn having won the previous face-off on their home turf. The best players from both sides, 21 from each, battled it out for supremacy. Kiama came out on top this year, and everyone enjoyed the day.

Ann Rees, the Social Secretary and Catering Manager, revealed that organising such tournaments “takes months of meticulous planning, starting with securing the venue”.

Despite the Club's success, it faces a challenge regarding storage for its equipment, which includes 10 tables, barriers, catering gear, seats, signs, and scoring boards.

The Kiama TT Club has come a long way from its beginnings in the Masonic Hall 16 years ago. Joy Boyd, one of the founders, is still an active player (in her wheelchair) at the age of 84, even competing in the Commonwealth Games in her prime.

The Club's growth, from 20 to over 90 members in just four years, may be attributed to the ample space available at the Leisure Centre. However, it's also a testament to the Club's welcoming atmosphere, where everyone, regardless of skill level or personal circumstances, feels accepted and included. Research has shown that social connectedness combats loneliness and depression, irrespective of age.

The Club meets twice a week, on Mondays and Thursdays from 12 to 3 pm. Approximately 40 enthusiasts consistently attend these sessions. While they would love to introduce evening sessions, it's challenging due to the Leisure Centre's prior commitments to other sports.

The Club as it charges $7 per 3-hour session (which includes refreshments), along with a $25 annual registration fee for Table Tennis Australia. Operating as a not-for-profit, the Club relies on government grants, fundraising efforts, and member fees to sustain itself.

The Club has expansion plans for the future, including expanding its meeting times and reaching out to a broader demographic. With an active approach to youth involvement, they aim to collaborate with the local high school, which already has table tennis tables, and offer coaching to students.

Angelo Giovas, the Club's Secretary, expressed their aspiration to find a permanent venue. “We remain hopeful that the right opportunity will present itself,” he said.