By Noelene Cosson
LYN Leppin’s connection with the Bena Tennis Club, which began in 1996 when her children joined the junior competition, has been recognised with Life Membership.
In 1999, Lyn kindly stepped up to take on the role of secretary, a position she still holds.
In 2003, she joined the Midweek Ladies competition as a player, representing Bena in many final series and only recently decided to hang up her racquet.
Over all these years, Lyn has been a valuable member of the Bena Tennis Club.
Her organisation, dedication, and incredible attention to detail have kept everything running smoothly.
Her knowledge and efficiency have made her an absolute pleasure to work with, and her record keeping is second to none, clear, precise, and full of detail and humour.
Throughout her time as secretary, Lyn has led and supported many important improvements for the club. A few highlights include:
• 2005 – Lyn oversaw the transfer of the club’s title from the original trustees to the incorporated club, a huge and complex task that took more than two years to complete. Some of the trustees had passed away, so she had to track down descendants and obtain the necessary documents, with her legal background and persistence proving invaluable.
• 2009 – A new constitution was adopted to support the club’s incorporation.
• 2012 – A retaining wall was erected at the back of the courts, and the club adopted new model rules to stay up to date with best practices.
• 2017 – Sealing at the back of the courts was financed through local crowdfunding and a shire grant.
To help boost membership, Lyn organised Friday social hits for local residents that brought new members and helped strengthen the club.
Her efforts to secure funding for improvements have left a lasting mark, improvements including those outlined above and repair of the back verandah of the clubrooms.
Lyn has been a tireless advocate for small rural clubs like Bena.
She has adapted to change such as upgrades to Tennis Victoria’s system, ensuring the club continued to run smoothly.
Her commitment, humour, and generosity have helped shape the Bena Tennis Club into what it is today.
Everyone at the club thanks Lyn for her years of service, friendship, and unwavering dedication and is proud to celebrate her Life Membership with her.