THE Seven Sounds Gloucester Open experienced another successful year in 2025, attracting over 100 players and their families to the town.
“More than 70 percent of the players come from outside the area, including Sydney, the Central Coast, and the Newcastle Hunter region,” said Ruth Johnson, the Tournament Secretary.
“This influx is a great boost for the Gloucester economy.”
Held over the October long weekend, the Open has been a cornerstone event for the Gloucester Tennis Club for over 60 years.
“We have players who have been involved since the competition started and are now bringing their grandchildren to compete,” Ruth added.
Sue Rynsaardt, a member of the winning pair in the women’s doubles competition, has been participating from Sydney for 30 years.
Tony Kingston, President of the Gloucester Tennis Club, highlighted the tournament’s inclusiveness and social aspects.
“All club members contribute to the club, and it’s wonderful for so many out-of-towners to experience the hospitality of Gloucester.”
Tennis coach Greg Billingham has also been actively developing the talents of junior players in the town.
“We are growing the junior cohort of the club and many played in the tournament,” Tony told News Of The Area.
A significant event at the tournament is the Evan O’Neil Open Men’s Singles Trophy.
Ben Howen, Adam Feeney, and Dane Fernandez, who wish to honour their friend Evan O’Neil, have for the second year donated the prize money for this event.
The trophy has been in Adam Feeney’s possession for seven years running.
“It’s a difficult trophy to wrest from Adam,” Ruth remarked, “but it serves as good motivation for the other players.”
The club conducts various competitions throughout the year, including a Seniors tournament in April and the Club Championships in the middle of the year.
Tony noted that there are numerous opportunities for tennis players to get involved.
“We have mixed competitions on Tuesday nights, a ladies’ competition on Thursday nights, and social tennis on Tuesday and Friday evenings. All skill levels are welcome,” he stated.
“However, the Gloucester Open is one of our favourite events. We are already planning for next year.”
If you would like to know more about tennis in Gloucester, Tony invites you to contact him at 0427 582 737 or go to the Club’s website https://play.tennis.com.au/gloucesterdistricttennisassociation.
By Wendy BUSWELL
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