Table tennis has returned to Millicent with weekly matches at the local squash courts attracting a strong following.

Up to 16 players meet for two hours of play and fellowship at the Williams Road courts from 10am each Monday.

The friendly competition is chiefly staged as a social interaction outlet by the group known as Millicent and Surrounds New Residents and Friends.

Wattle Range Council provided the tables which were formerly used in school holiday activities.

The matches began midway through last year and have just returned after a festive season break.

Keen player Tim Grosvenor said players of all abilities were welcome and age was not a barrier with some aged in their 70s.

Mr Grosvenor said the average weekly attendance was about a dozen with players appreciative of the Millicent Squash Club for making the facilities available to them.

“We usually have two tables going at once, “Mr Grosvenor said.

“One is a bit of ‘a hit and giggle’ while the other is for more serious players.

“There are singles and doubles matches.

“Table tennis is a low impact sport and it does perk up the system.

“As well as playing, we have breaks for coffee and biscuits.

“We share jokes and find out the news of the town.

“Our group welcomes all whether they are newcomers to Millicent like me or life-long residents of the town.

“The cost to play is a gold coin donation each week.

“We enjoy the fun and friendship of the group.”

Millicent and Surrounds New Residents and Friends was founded in 2021 by newcomers Darrell Looker and Simone Berry.

As well as the weekly table tennis competitions, Ms Berry said planning for a monthly meeting program for the coming year was under way.

“We have had visits to places of interest like Lake McIntyre and a homestead garden, tours of the Kalangadoo and Mount Burr townships, pub meals and a quiz afternoon,” she said.