26 October 2012 | Tennis Victoria

At the recent Community Clubs Association of Victoria (CCAV) 2012 Annual Awards, Geelong Lawn Tennis Club (GLTC) won Small Club of the Year, while their Member Services Manager Ross Gibbs also won Club Employee of the Year.

The prestigious Club of the Year award is given to the club that best demonstrates benefit to its community through the provision of services, competitions or other common interest facilities, assistance to outside organisations, employee skills development programmes as well as commitment to OHS in all areas of operation.

In February this year, GLTC staged a highly successful Davis Cup tie between Australia and People’s Republic of China which generated more than $1m of economic activity for Geelong.

General Manager of the GLTC Ken Barton said it was an honour to win the award.

“Anytime you are recognised by your peers, it’s a good feeling,” said Barton.

“The fact that CCAV’s field included a broad range of sporting, social and recreational clubs means the recognition is quite special.”

Barton also said the award would have a range of benefits for the club.

“Publicity like this affirms our member’s commitment to their club and also allows us to promote the club in the wider community,” said Barton.

Ross Gibbs, who won Club Employee of the Year, was recognised for his outstanding dedication to the club through a range of activities including bar work, banking, cleaning and administering competitions.

His popularity among members was so high that when the Corio Club merged with GLTC, Gibbs was negotiated as an unconditional part of the package.