By Jonty Ralphsmith
She’s known by those who play tennis in Narre Warren as the mother of the Narre Warren Tennis Club.
Now, club co-founder and president Betty Lukas has an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) to show for her service to tennis.
Ms Lukas does all the work at Sweeney Reserve that no-one wants to do but is necessary for members and players to enjoy their tennis: assorting equipment, allocating courts, communication within and from the club, and maintenance work.
Drawn to the club by a love of tennis, the former mid-week ladies’ competitor remained active around the club to assist where needed while her two daughters, Cara and Megan, played growing up.
That pair moved on from the club long ago, but Betty’s care for the club and love of the game has kept her there.
She’s since accumulated a party bag full of accolades and roles: life member, two stints as president, twice treasurer, secretary and record keeper.
Ms Lukas also had a 12-year stint as president of the Berwick and District Tennis Association which involved co-ordinating all competition tennis in the region.
“She’s kept the club together for my 20 years there,” said long-time club member Paul Kleverlaan.
“She’s the backbone of the club; committee’s come and go, Betty doesn’t.
“Occasionally she’ll go into the background but when the club needs her, she’s always there.”
She started her second stint as president in 2020, staying on until now to help sustain the club during the difficult period and subsequent recovery.
Ms Lukas has a reputation and integrity which is instilled into juniors, where her great passion lies: giving kids the opportunity to play and enjoy the sport.
Her impact has transcended generations given her 41-years-and-counting involvement with the club, putting her in a position to connect older folk with the mixture of members currently involved.
While Ms Lukas has an unassuming personality synonymous with many award recipients, those around the club were rapt to see her get just recognition.
“We’re very pleased for Betty because she never wants any credit but she is friendly, supportive and understanding, so she’s great asset for our club,” said vice-president Sheyenne Algama.
