07 Oct 2025
Pickleball fever has hit the West Wimmera, with locals in Kaniva and Edenhope picking up paddles for the first time with two trial sessions held in Kaniva and three in Edenhope attracting strong community interest.
In Kaniva, between 20+ locals picked up a paddle across the two sessions, with several returning for both nights and keen to see the activity continue. There was a mix of younger players and seniors keen to give the sport a go, all of whom quickly embraced the game’s unique scoring system and social spirit.
Edenhope also proved a hit, with 13 people attending the first night, 15 the second and 14 the third. A highlight came when an international traveller from Canada joined in. A seasoned A highlight was welcoming a visitor from Canada, who shared how big Pickleball has become in his hometown. In his 70s, he impressed everyone with his play and told the group, “Pickleball is addictive, and I can see this town building a strong player base.”
The Edenhope P&A Society has now offered its ongoing support to keep Pickleball running, with sessions held on Thursday evenings at a cost of $5 per player. A local Facebook group has been set up to help players connect, and indicated that if demand grows, more sessions can be added.
“It’s been fantastic to see people of all ages giving it a go,” said Vedang Ovalekar from Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly. “Pickleball is fun, social and easy to learn – and most importantly, it brings people together.”
These activations were made possible thanks to the initiative of West Wimmera Shire Council staff, P&A society Edenhope and the support of WRSA, who assisted with equipment and court markings.
Pickleball continues to grow across the Wimmera, with WRSA set to host a Pickleball display at the Haven Market in Horsham later this month, and a new activation planned in Birchip in partnership with Mallee Sports Assembly in October.
Anyone in Edenhope interested in joining can contact the P&A Society, while Kaniva players are encouraged to stay connected through Carlee, from West Wimmera Shire Council
Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly is committed to supporting active recreation opportunities across our region, helping communities stay connected, healthy and engaged through sport. If your town is interested in trying Pickleball or exploring other activities, get in touch with us at 5382 4599.
