Like many sporting clubs Loton Park Tennis Club has experienced a decline in membership over the last few years, and on Saturday February 16th, there was a strong attendance at the Special General Meeting of the Members to discuss the future of the club. Loton Park is a very important and unique part of the Perth Gay and Lesbian Community – it is the only sporting club in Australia that is run by the GLBT Community and provides a unique environment for both males and females of the community to mix in a relaxed social atmosphere away from the pubs and clubs. The response from the Members at the special meeting was encouraging, and the Management Committee resolved to meet to prepare the formal motions to be presented to the members at the next Special General Meeting to be held on March 8th at which time the manner in which the club will proceed will be decided.

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The Management Committee will be looking at offering Sunday & Winter Organised Social Tennis, starting up the “Dinner Club” again, incorporating more social events into the playing calendar of the club and looking at offering incentives for Members, especially those under 25 to encourage them to use the facilities. The Grass Courts will also be available to the Public to Hire on non playing days. These will enhance the membership package for both Members and their friends; however, the Committee is still faced with the task of increasing the club’s revenue by $15,000 – $20,000pa to ensure the required upkeep and maintenance is achievable. Other ideas to supplement revenue are to take donations and for volunteers to assist with some of the tasks. With this in mind the Committee is looking forward to implementing the new strategies once they have been verified by the Members and is positive of the club continuing to be an important part of Perth’s Gay and Lesbian Community.

In the meantime, the club has a wealth of upcoming events, so come down and support Loton Park!

• March 8th – Special General Meeting of the Members, starts 5.30pm
• Easter Weekend – Loton goes to Bridgetown for the Annual Bridgetown Easter tournament
• April 5-6 and 12-13 – Club Championship
• May 3rd – Annual Dinner & Presentation of Championship Awards
• May (date to be confirmed) – Quiz Night

Loton Park is now offering discounted mid-season membership prices – $195, concessions $165 – with an additional $50 discounted in exchange for helping with social tennis. Social memberships are available for $30. For more information on becoming a member, visit Loton Park’s website or email enquiries@lotonpark.com.au.