Image Upload


File size must be less than 2Mb

You must have online publishing permission or full ownership of this image

File types (jpg, png, gif)






  • Hero image
    Former tennis professional Sam Groth with Willow Freeland and Shiloh Walls with the mens and womens trophies during an Australian Open tennis roadshow visit in Stawell.
  • Hero image
    Oliver Monaghan with the mens and womens trophies during an Australian Open tennis roadshow visit in Stawell.
  • Hero image
    Ava, 8, and Greta, 6, Brilliant with the mens and womens trophies during an Australian Open tennis roadshow visit in Stawell.
  • Hero image
    Shaun Ellis and his son Henry, 3, during an Australian Open tennis roadshow visit in Stawell.
  • Hero image
    Max Lasslett, 4, takes a tumble during an Australian Open tennis roadshow visit in Stawell.
  • Hero image
    Max Lasslett, 4, takes a tumble during an Australian Open tennis roadshow visit in Stawell.
  • Hero image
    Sam Groth and Tennis Victoria Club Development Officer – Country Central West, Kate-Lyn Perkin with the mens and womens trophies during an Australian Open tennis roadshow visit in Stawell.

Australian Open trophies ‘Daphne and Norm’ on the road to Stawell

By Sarah Matthews

Young Stawell tennis players had an opportunity to get up close and personal with the sport’s Australian ‘holy grail’ yesterday.

Former Australian tennis player Sam Groth brought the Norman Brookes Challenge Cup and Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup to the North Park courts as part of an ‘AO on the Road’ tour.

“We’re taking Daphne and Norm, the trophies the winners of the men’s and women’s singles titles at the Australian Open receive, out on the road,” Mr Groth said.



Article continues below


“Obviously it’s been a tough year for everyone in Victoria. It’s going to be a bit of a different-look Australian Open, so it’s a chance for us to bring the Australian Open to regional Victoria.

“But also for us to be able to grab some content and showcase regional Victoria to the people who see the Australian Open.”

The Australian Open is due to run from February 8 to 21, delayed due to circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mr Groth, who is also a Nine Network media personality, said the Australian Open provided young tennis players with an opportunity to see the ‘superstars’ of the sport.

“That’s why we need an Australian Open as well – for the young kids to see the players and to give them something to aspire to. To be able to see their champions in action,” he said.

“I grew up in a regional town so I know there are definitely challenges growing up in a regional area.”

Mr Groth had an opportunity to observe young tennis players having a hit during his visit.

“Country kids definitely have a high degree of hand-eye co-ordination,” he said.

“Who knows, maybe there’s a future Australian Open champion here?

“I just hope they’re enjoying their tennis.”

The entire January 20, 2021 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!