IT’S a player friendly sport taking off in Australia and about to be trialled in Rosewood.

Thagoona resident Lorraine Owens is excited to see her home region offering pickleball at the Rosewood Showgrounds, starting on Saturday.

“I’m at that age group where I don’t want to sit down. I want to keep active,” Lorraine said.

“And it’s good head and feet coordination really.

“Anybody that plays, they just love it.”

Pickleball has been described as “an addictive game with a funny name”.

Ipswich Pickleball Association (IPA) committee member Lorraine agrees.

The IPA was formed in late 2023 to introduce the low impact paddle ball sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis.

Ipswich Pickleball official Lorraine Owens is happy to see the popularity of her new sport growing.  Photo: LYLE RADFORD

After watching pickleball gain an enthusiastic response at the Ipswich Showgrounds, Lorraine hopes country people embrace the sport.

“Now we’ve got two venues – we’ve got Ipswich and we’ve got Rosewood coming,” she said.

Lorraine said competitions were planned twice a week in Rosewood, depending on what activities were organised at the Rosewood Showgrounds.

Saturday afternoon’s launch is a come and try opportunity for people curious about what pickleball involves.

Lorraine hopes to attract new players from RAAF Base Amberley.

Demonstrating the sport, Lorraine clearly enjoyed joining other pickleball players on the indoor courts.

Players serve underarm, hitting the ball over the net, testing the opponent’s reflexes, reactions and court positioning.

A paddle is used instead of a racquet.

The ball is softer than a bouncing tennis ball.

“We enjoy the camaraderie from doubles, rather than singles,” Lorraine said.

Anne Russell concentrates on getting the most benefit out of playing pickleball. Photo: LYLE RADFORD

Lorraine played vigoro, netball, tennis and squash before catching the pickleball bug.

She said everyone, even with limited skills, can share in the health and social benefits.

“It is easy to learn and you can learn in minutes,” Lorraine said.

“It is fun for all ages and skill levels.”

The IPA is a member of Pickleball Association of Queensland which is a member of the Pickleball Australia Association.

Lorraine said participants from Ipswich and Rosewood could become involved in state and national competitions.

Other developing Queensland pickleball centres include the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Hervey Bay, Toowoomba and Clifton.

“It’s just gaining popularity,” Lorraine said.

“It’s just getting the word out there because you say pickleball and people say what’s that?’’