Moe Newborough Keenagers Table Tennis Club: A Beacon of Community and Recreation 

Nestled in the heart of country Victoria, the Moe Newborough Keenagers Table Tennis Club stands as a testament to the spirit of inclusivity, community, and active living. Celebrating its upcoming 20th anniversary, this club is not only a hub for sports enthusiasts but a vibrant community gathering place that extends far beyond the confines of table tennis. 

A Club for All 

Pat Esse, a dedicated committee member of the club, shared that it was initially established in 2005 to cater to retirees over the age of 55. Today, however, the club welcomes individuals aged 18 and over, boasting a membership of 99 enthusiasts, including the oldest member who is an inspiring 96 years young. 

The club, which prides itself on being one of the largest of its kind in country Victoria, transcends the traditional concept of sports clubs. “It’s not just about playing table tennis,” Pat explains, “It’s about getting older people out of the house to socialise and exercise.” The club's inclusive atmosphere is underscored by its members, who range from locals to those travelling from as far as Heyfield, Churchill, and Morwell. 

Unique Features and Community Spirit 

Unlike other table tennis clubs, Moe Newborough Keenagers does not focus on competition. Instead, it cultivates a relaxed and fun environment where members can enjoy a social game without the pressure to win. “It’s the social aspect that really attracts people,” says Pat. The club also makes exceptional efforts to include everyone. The club recently honoured one of their beloved members with an honorary membership, in recognition for their contribution and loyalty towards the club. 

Facilities at the Latrobe Leisure Centre in Newborough, where the club is based, are exemplary. After a significant advocacy effort, the club secured a federal government grant exceeding $700,000 to enhance its amenities, including a new kitchen, dining room, and storage space, benefiting all users of the centre. 

Overcoming Challenges and Looking to the Future 

Despite facing challenges like high insurance costs and restrictions on dedicated sporting halls, the club remains undeterred. Table Tennis Victoria has stepped in to provide reasonable insurance solutions, and the club continues to advocate for more focused government investment in facilities for table tennis. 

Looking ahead, the club has set ambitious goals. They aim to restore membership numbers to pre-COVID levels and maintain affordable fees through diligent financial management, thus keeping the sport accessible to all. The club also plans to encourage local Keenagers clubs to join the centre, fostering a broader community network. 

Community Engagement  

The club is actively involved in community projects, such as the Wheels For Kids initiative, supporting disabled children in developing countries by providing wheelchairs made by volunteers. This highlights the club's commitment not just to sport but to humanitarian efforts as well. 

Pat, a passionate advocate for the Moe Newborough Keenagers Table Tennis Club, sees great potential for growth through increased collaboration with Table Tennis Victoria (TTV). He envisions TTV taking a pivotal role in magnifying the club's impact by featuring its activities and achievements. This spotlight would not only celebrate the vibrant life of Keenagers clubs across the region but also inspire broader community engagement. Additionally, Pat suggests that TTV’s initiatives to host tournaments in cities such as Traralgon is significantly enhancing the presence of different club's in other regions of Victoria for their visibility and profile, strengthening the community ties and fostering a greater sense of unity among table tennis enthusiasts. This affiliation with TTV is helping them unlock new opportunities and bring a fresh wave of energy and enthusiasm to the sport at the grassroots level. 

A Call to Action 

As Moe Newborough Keenagers Table Tennis Club continues to serve as a beacon of health, wellness, and community spirit, it invites all those interested in experiencing the joy and camaraderie of table tennis to join in. Whether you are 18 or 96, there is a place for you at the table. 

For more information on joining or supporting the club, or to simply spend a morning enjoying the game and good company, visit the Latrobe Leisure Centre in Newborough. Together, let's keep the ball bouncing in the spirit of friendship and fun at the heart of Victoria! 

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Author - Sai Gupta