Official Opening Of Tennis Club’s New Courts

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 12, Issue 20, 10 February 1948, Page 4

Official Opening Of Tennis Club’s New Courts

Saturday was ■ a gala day at the Domain, when the Whakatane Lawn Tennis Club officially opened its five new grass courts. The courts looked very well, with plenty of grass and all fittings in excellent order.

Two hundred and fifty people were present to witness the opening. Mr P. Bryers, Club President and also President of the Bay of Plenty SubAssociation, opened proceedings by welcoming all visitors and thanking al those who had contributed so geenrously, in voluntary labour, to construct the courts. He also thanked 5 those business people who had given financial and moral support in the club’s short life.

Mr B. S. Barry, Mayor of Whakatane and club patron, congratulated the club on its very fine achievement and expressed his personal pleasure that a public tennis club was once again flourishing in Whakatane. Mr Barry assured the club that the Bbrough Council would give it all the assistance possible provided the members in their turn did their fair share of helping themselves " • Mr J. Wilson, chairman of the Whakatane School Committee, also commended the club on its effort. The president then called on Mrs Barry who hit the first ball. An interesting exhibition of men’s doubles > followed, when the Lees brothers from Rangitaiki defeated Bryers and Wylds. Under the very capable management of the Club Captain, Mr K. Mcßae, a progressive tournament was held, the winners being Miss Val Carter and Mr Harry Armstrong. Afternoon tea was served by women members of the club.