Stewart Fenton

A Club steeped in the history of Australian tennis, Royal South Yarra Lawn Tennis Club boasts a range of world-class facilities, available to its members and their guests. With 10 superbly-maintained grass courts and 15 porous all-weather courts with lights for night play, Royal South Yarra has for more than 130 years been a place for members to enjoy the many and varied delights of tennis – from the fierce competition of its annual Club Championships to a relaxed hit of social tennis. Beginning its life as a humble one-room weatherboard pavilion erected in 1884, the Club was established when tennis was a garden party pastime, enjoyed by genteel members of Melbourne’s social set. Over the ensuing years, it grew as the game grew, producing state, national, international and Davis Cup champions and becoming a driving force behind Australia’s emergence as a tennis powerhouse in the 20th century. Beyond the courts, Royal South Yarra has established an array of facilities as befitting one of the country’s premier private sporting clubs, including a fully equipped gymnasium, squash courts and a heated swimming pool. And it’s also a place to enjoy the finer things in life with family, friends and fellow members. The clubhouse features two bars and dining facilities serving restaurant-quality meals. Royal South Yarra’s various rooms make it the perfect venue for weddings, birthdays and other private functions.