SUCCESSFUL LAUNCH OF THE WOLLONDILLY TABLE TENNIS ASSOCIATION

Wollondilly Shire, a local government area adjacent to the south-western fringe of Sydney, was created on 7 March 1906. Most of the Shire is either national park or forms part of the water catchment for 97% of Sydney's water supply.

Wollondilly now has its own Table Tennis Association.

The Wollondilly Table Tennis Association (WTTA) official launch kicked off on 19 February 2022 at the church hall of 79 Westbourne Avenue, Thirlmere with the attending of State Member, Nathaniel Smith MP, Wollondilly Mayor, Matt Gould, Life Member of TTNSW, Paul Pinkewich, Vice-President Table Tennis NSW, Ted Davis, and Life Member of Kiama, Joy Boyd.

Mayor Matt Gould and State Member Nathaniel Smith were delighted to be speaking at the launch and said that it’s fantastic to see a new sporting group for members of all ages starting up in the shire. Huge thanks to Ken Harkness and the steering committee for the efforts they have put into getting the association off the ground.

Paul Pinkewich, 13 times Australian Table Tennis Champion, presented a demonstration game to launch this great new sport in the Wollondilly. Representatives of the Kiama and Illawarra Clubs were welcomed as they attended to lend support.

WTTA was founded by Thirlmere solicitor Ken Harkness with his wife and several friends. Ken said: "I've had the idea at the back of my head for a long time. I know what a great game it is. I used to teach it at the YMCA back in high school and I was looking back and reflecting how nice it was, what a great environment and everyone enjoyed each other's company, and thought it might fill a bit of a gap in Wollondilly. It's a very satisfying game to play well.”

St Stephen's Anglican Church serves as an excellent location for the association, allowing up to eight tables to be set up at once. With its convenient location close to Thirlmere Public School, kids are expected to enjoy making table tennis their new activity.

Vice-President Table Tennis NSW, Ted Davis, congratulated on the successful official lunch of the Wollondilly Table Tennis Association. Ted said “Table tennis is the best sport for anyone of any age and any ability. It is great for kids and seniors. It doesn't cost much, and it's healthy and you can't injure yourself. It's fast, it's fun and it's found its way to Wollondilly."

Camden-based qualified table tennis coach Michael Pilottis, part of the association's steering committee, is working hard to help all members improve their games. Wollondilly Table Tennis Association members will receive membership to Table Tennis NSW and have the opportunity to join its competitions.

Ken decided to keep things in the family and co-opted his daughter in law to design the striking banners.

There are several weekly sessions: Kids: 3-6pm Fridays; Seniors: 1-3pm Fridays and Adults: 7.30-9.30pm Tuesdays.

Following a further article in the local press reporting on the opening the hall was so full on the first night with interest so high that Thursday night will soon be added.

Venue: 79 Westbourne Ave, Thirlmere (Church Hall)

David Lee and Michael Li wish to gratefully acknowledge Nathaniel Smith MP, Matt Gould, Ken Harkness, Jess Layt, Wollondilly Advertiser and Table Tennis New South Wales.