Tennis
3 April, 2025
Herb Hallam honoured with life membership
Herb Hallam has been awarded life membership by the Central Wimmera Tennis Association in recognition of more than two decades of dedicated service.
The prestigious honour was presented on March 22, in appreciation of Herb’s unwavering commitment to local tennis, both on and off the court.
Since 1988, Mr Hallam has actively served in multiple roles within the CWTA.
He led the association as President from 1994 to 1998, supported it as Vice President in 1989 and 1999, and kept accurate records as senior recorder from 1990 to 1993 and from 2006 to 2012.
Over the years, he worked on the grading committee and was a general executive member.
During a recent presentation ceremony at the grand final day, CWTA officials presented Mr Hallam with a Life Membership certificate and a commemorative pin in front of peers and community members who have witnessed his years of dedication firsthand.
Mr Hallam’s journey in tennis began in his teenage years.
Growing up in the small farming community of Wonwondah, he picked up a racquet at the age of 15 or 16 and never looked back.
“I started playing tennis when I was about 16,” he said.
“I played at Wonwondah for a while, then spent a few years at Laharum, a couple more in Toolondo, and eventually returned to Laharum.”
Over the years, Mr Hallam made his mark not just on the court but in the administrative side of the sport.
Even after retiring as a farmer, Mr Hallam continued to support the sport and help wherever needed.
Now nearly 70, Mr Hallam remains active in the community, still helping at shearing sheds and participating in local events.
He moved to Horsham a year ago but has maintained strong ties to the tennis scene.
Receiving the Life Membership came as an unexpected moment of recognition.
“It was a big shock, I’ll tell you,” Herb admitted.
“My wife knew about it a week before but never told me,” he said.
“It was very overwhelming—something I’d never expected.
“You don’t do all those jobs for awards; you do it for enjoyment.”
When asked about the highs of his tennis career, he pointed to a team success.
“Probably the premiership with Wonwondah years ago, I don’t remember the exact year,” he said.
“You get out there, have a hit, and the camaraderie and friendships you build—that’s what it’s all about.”
He also had a simple message for younger players and future tennis leaders:
"Just get out there and enjoy yourselves."
Herb thanked everyone he played with and against over the years and praised the Horsham Lawn Tennis Club for supporting local events.
"They put on a good day for the grand final on Saturday," he said.
Herb Hallam's Life Membership stands as a fitting tribute to a man who gave so much of his time and energy to community sport.
