I've been a resident of Waverly for almost nine years - it feels more and more like home every day. A significant part of my life is beach tennis, a sport I found solace in during a difficult period battling mental health issues and recovering from a knee injury. I joined a vibrant community, sharing a mutual love for the game, with members ranging from youthful 7-year-olds to spirited seniors in their late 70s. For many, beach tennis is their only outlet to stay active, while dealing with personal hardships.

Unfortunately, our council restricts the usage of sport nets at our beach to only beach volleyball and foot volleyball. Seeing as beach tennis takes up the same space and requires similar equipment as the allowed sports, this restriction feels inexplicable and a setback to passionate players like us.

While we respect the necessary space constraints on our beloved beach, it is challenging to comprehend why restrictions can't be expanded to include sports like beach tennis. It would not only foster diversity in sports activities among locals but also accommodate the needs of different community members like us who continue to enjoy this lesser-known sport.

We urge the Waverly council to review this policy, actively consider our proposal and provide equal opportunity to all sports enthusiasts. We truly believe that by being inclusive of diverse sports like beach tennis, the council displays a commitment towards encouraging active, healthy lifestyles in all our community, and not only on a limited and selected group.

Hear our stories, and make room for us. Please sign this petition to demonstrate our collective voice and effect a positive change. We love our community and wish to continue our sport here, at home.

*Please note that your name, signature & address will be used solely for forwarding this list to the Waverly Council as part of this formal petition.