We're thrilled to announce our newest Pickleball Victoria Affiliates over the past couple of months!

We encourage all players to support them

Venues

• SmashX

• Pickleball FUN Community 

• Better Tennis Plus (operating at Frankston Centenary Tennis Club: FCTC)

• State Pickleball Centre Pty Ltd

Clubs

• Darebin Pickleball Club

• Clifton Hill Pickleball Club

• Echuca Moama Pickleball Club

• Southside Pickleball Inc

Community Groups

• Central Highlands Pickleball Club

• Woodside Community Public Hall

Find their details under Clubs and see their locations at Where to Play

A fun night out at FCTC 1st Annual Pickleball Open with comedians Dave Hughes and Ash Williams.

Dinner served from 6pm. Bar Happy Hour 6pm - 7pm

Comedy Show from 7pm

1 Point Tournament 8pm

Ticket price includes comedy show, entry into pickleball 1 point tournament and Reddy Roast dinner.

****Winner of 1 point tournament receives $250 ****

Next month, PicklePlay will host the PicklePlayClassic. A weekend-long indoor tournament, open to all skill levels. 

Event Details

Date: 15 –17 August 2025

Location: PicklePlay

1 South Dr
Bentleigh East, Victoria, 3165
Australia

The future of pickleball is NOW: The Dink Minor League Pickleball is sweeping the nation with its innovative, fun and social amateur MLPlay™ Team Event.

Minor League Pickleball is an innovative team competition where teams of 4 players (2 women and 2 men) compete against each other in an engaging format, with twists on traditional match-ups and scoring for games, matches, and tiebreakers. Teams compete against each other in Matches using the MLPlay™ format.
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Teams compete in regional and State qualification events where the winners grant themselves a ticked to the National Championships, September 12-14th in Queensland.

Each DUPR division champions will then not only be crowned National Champions, but stamp themselves a ticket to the USA Nationals, in Dallas Texas, in December.

Warrnambool Classic Breaks Records and Delivers an Outstanding Tournament Experience!

The Warrnambool Classic in its second year saw a 454 players hit the courts this year, more than doubling last year's participation of 214. This incredible growth reflects the rising popularity of pickleball and the dedication of the local community in making Warrnambool a standout tournament destination.

One of the event’s major highlights was its seamless operation, with matches running to schedule across all three days. This was made possible thanks to the commitment of an exceptional volunteer team, with between 6 to 10 individuals supporting daily operations. Their efforts ensured a well run, friendly, and professional environment.

For many participants, this tournament marked their first foray into competitive play. The Warrnambool City Pickleball Club organisers and volunteers went above and beyond to make newcomers feel welcome, prioritising a smooth and inclusive experience for all.

This year’s tournament also featured two under-18 events, along with a hybrid exhibition that showcased four teams, adding an exciting new element to the program.

A heartfelt thank you to the Warrnambool City Pickleball Club for hosting such a well run and enjoyable event. Club President, Dave Watson, made special mention and thanks to Mark Taylor, who stepped in as Tournament Coordinator and the referee's who provided vital support both playing a key role in the smooth and successful delivery of the tournament.

Congratulations once again to everyone involved, players, organisers, and volunteers, for making the 2025 Warrnambool Classic a true highlight on the pickleball calendar!

Blitzy’s Coaching Corner – Meet Aaron Blitz

With over eight years of experience on the court as a player and coach. Aaron Blitz known as Blitzy is a well-respected figure in the Victorian pickleball community who helped begin the very first venue in Victoria in 2018. A seasoned pro player and highly regarded coach, Blitzy has helped shape the game across the state through his skill, insight, and passion for developing players of all levels. His coaching combines deep tactical knowledge with a love for the sport that’s truly infectious. In Blitzy’s Coaching Corner, Blitzy will share tips, strategies, and stories to help you elevate your game whether you’re a beginner or aiming for the podium.

BLITZY’S TIP #1 

Kitchen Control

The dink is one of the most important and underrated shots in pickleball. It’s all about control, not power. The key? Soft hands and patience. Focus on keeping your paddle relaxed and use your legs, not just your arms, to guide the shot. A sore back instead of legs is a sign you are not using your legs enough. Aim to land the ball just over the net in the kitchen area (NVZ), forcing your opponent to hit up. Great dinking isn’t about winning the point outright, it’s about setting up the perfect opportunity. Practice consistency, mix up your placement, and remember: in the dink game, patience wins the point.

Torquay Pickleball Association Inc:- From humble beginnings In May 2021 Torquay Pickleball Association Inc has celebrated it's 4th Birthday recently with a very well attended function at 4 Pines, Torquay. There was lots of prizes, laughter, food, socialising and special acknowledgements to the person who kicked it all off, Murray Ellis, and a valuable Committee member and tireless volunteer. (See below)

The Club has grown to over 250 members with Pickleball Victoria and is a thriving pickleball community. We offer games 7 days a week and members have a choice of over 20 sessions per week, which cater to over 300 players a week on average. We welcome visitors, beginners and all player levels. There's something for everyone!

Find out more about us at https://www.torquaypickleball.com.au/

Member Spotlight: STEPHEN McMILLAN

Meet Stephen McMillan, the dedicated and inventive Vice President of the Torquay Pickleball Club, a much loved figure whose behind the scenes efforts have made a massive impact on the smooth running of games and the overall player experience.

Stephen was recently recognised with an award for his commitment, hands on support, and practical solutions that help keep things running without a hitch. One of his biggest contributions has been the creation of a custom “one stop shop” PLAY BOARD  a portable setup that includes everything needed to manage games with ease. It features items like safety goggles, timers, ice packs, hooters, spare paddles, injury report sheets, game scorecards and more. It’s grown so extensive it’s jokingly referred to as “bigger than Ben Hur” but it’s become a vital part of how the club operates.

Stephen also took the initiative to address the challenges some senior members were facing when moving heavy equipment. He came up with a lightweight net system that reduces the need for heavy lifting a thoughtful and practical improvement that’s made a real difference.

In addition to all this, Stephen has recently completed his Certificate I in Coaching, enabling him to better support developing players. He’s a familiar face at games hosting sessions, encouraging newcomers, and offering support to players of all levels with genuine enthusiasm and positivity.

The Torquay Pickleball Association is incredibly fortunate to have a Vice President like Stephen  someone who gives so much of his time and energy to ensure the club not only runs smoothly but continues to grow in a welcoming, inclusive, and enjoyable way.

Members Quick 10

What’s your name and which club are you part of? 

Kristen, Eastern Indoor

How did you first get into pickleball? 

My partner and I thought it looked like fun, and a lot easier than squash, so we just started playing each other for a fun afternoon.

3.         What do you enjoy most about the sport? 

Its just so accessible to any age, any ability, its just a lot of fun, but it can be competitive if that's what you are into.

4.         Do you have a favourite memory on the court? 

I really don't, I just love it every single time I step onto the court.

5.         What’s one tip you’d give to someone just starting out in pickleball?  

Just have a great time. Don't worry if you are not hitting every ball well, no one does at the beginning, but everyone gets to laugh because it is hilarious and that means its good for your soul.

6.         What’s your go-to shot or signature move? 

I don't really want to share my best moves, but its probably no secret I only have one real shot, top spin forehand.

7.         Outside of pickleball, what else do you love doing? 

Swimming (but only when its warm!), riding my mountain bike, and going to the footy with family.

8.         Who inspires you (on or off the court)? 

My partner Aaron inspires me. He always looks on the bright side and his enthusiasm never fades. 

9.         Quick fire round (just for fun):

Favourite snack after a game:  Drumstick ice cream, double choc!

Doubles or singles?  Both are fun, but getting more into the singles lately has been really great for learning and development of my game,  to push myself and really go for my shots

Morning or evening matches?  Evening

Preferred paddle colour:  Pink!

10.   Anything else you’d like to share with the PV community?

Pickleball is more than just a sport. Its a great community, with a culture that is very inclusive and that is something we should be very proud of and make sure we nurture to keep the sport growing and encourage the next generation.

Hi Pickleballers 

New Financial Year, Fresh Game Plan: Four Smart Money Moves Worth Making.

The start of a new financial year is like the first serve in a Pickleball match, a perfect moment to reset, refocus, and take control of your next move. Whether you're already retired or just enjoying a bit more freedom, it’s a great time to check in on your finances and make sure they’re working for the lifestyle you want. Here are four financial areas that are well worth looking into right now:

1. Is Your Super Still Serving You Well?

Super can be easy to set and forget, but it's one of the most important tools you have for long-term financial security. Take a moment to check your current fund’s performance and, importantly, what you're paying in fees. Even small differences in fees can add up to big losses over time. If your fund isn’t performing as well as it should, or you’re unsure what you're paying, it might be time to have a closer look or get a second opinion. A better-performing fund could mean more money in your corner for the years ahead.

2. Saving Made Simple (and Automatic)

Want to build a buffer or fund your next holiday without even thinking about it? A regular savings plan might be your secret weapon. By setting up automated contributions, whether to savings, investments, or super, you remove the decision-making and stick to your plan. It’s a steady, low-effort way to make progress toward your financial goals. Now’s a great time to check how much you're putting away and whether it’s time to increase your contributions (even just slightly). Think of it as a long game that pays off.

3. Receiving an Inheritance? Don’t Just Park It in the Bank

Whether it’s from a parent, partner, or another loved one, receiving an inheritance can feel like a welcome boost—but also a bit of a mystery. What should you actually do with it?

While it might be tempting to let it sit in the bank, that may not be the most effective option. Depending on the size and type of the inheritance (cash, property, shares), there could be smarter ways to put it to work. You might use it to top up your super, pay off debt, invest for income, or even fund more of the lifestyle you love. Just be aware of potential tax implications such as CGT (if you sell an inherited property) or impacts on Centrelink entitlements. A quick conversation with a financial adviser can help you weigh up your options and make the most of a meaningful windfall.  

4. Social Security: Are You Getting Everything You’re Entitled To?

Many people assume they’re not eligible for government benefitsor they simply forget to check. But social security entitlements like the Age Pension, health care cards, and energy concessions can make a real difference to your finances. Even a small change in your income or assets might open the door to new benefits. Reviewing your situation with a financial adviser could help you uncover support you didn’t know you qualified for. After all, you've worked hard, why not make the most of what’s available?

Wrap-Up: Start the Year with Confidence

Like any good game plan, the key to success is consistency, strategy, and knowing when to make adjustments. Whether you’re reviewing your super, setting up a savings plan, navigating an inheritance, or checking your entitlements, these are all smart ways to start the new financial year on the front foot.

Need a second pair of eyes on your plan? Radiance can help you make sense of your options and set you up for a year of confident decisions, and maybe even a few extra wins, both on and off the court.

Get in touch with Ravi at Radiance Wealth to set up your game plan today.

M 0416 772 773 | T 03 9590 6341  | Eravi@radiancewealth.com.au |                                                          

W www.radiancewealth.com.au

Radiance Wealth Details:
M 0416 772 773 | T 03 9590 6341  | E ravi@radiancewealth.com.au |
W www.radiancewealth.com.au

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