PICKLEBALL players have taken to the court at Thorneside, hoping that more Redlanders will pick up a paddle and join in.
Thorneside Pickleball co-ordinator Ron Jackson said pickleball was a paddle sport that could be learned in minutes and played for a lifetime.
"It brings together elements of tennis, badminton and ping pong to create a sport that's fun for all ages and skill levels but gets fast-paced and exhilarating at competitive levels," Mr Jackson said.
"It's easier to pick up than many net sports. It's lower than other racquet sports so it's easier on the body and it focuses on quick reflexes and ball placement rather than smashing the ball, powerful serves or a player's speed around the court."
Mr Jackson said these differences opened up pickleball to a range of players.
"Whether you've been playing tennis your whole life or you're walking onto a court for the first time, whether you are young, old, or in-between, whether you're strategy and competitive or just want to get involved in something fun, social or active, pickleball is for you," he said.
The Thorneside group is part of the Brisbane Pickleball Club, which was formed in August last year.
The club offers introductory clinics, social play, weekly leagues and tournaments.
The Australian Pickleball Championships for players of all skill levels will be held at Mount Gravatt in October. Players from the United States, Canada and Thailand will be compete.
Local sessions are held at Thorneside Community Tennis Centre on the corner of Ivy Street and Mooroondu Road from 6.30pm to 8.30pm every Wednesday.
For information, contact Ron Jackson on 0417 152 133.
For information and other venues in Brisbane, email play@brisbanepickleballclub.com or visit brisbanepickleballclub.com or meetup.com/en-AU/Brisbane-Southside-Pickleball.