Height
8 meters
Year Built
1978
Address
Rankin Street, Barellan, NSW 2665
The Lowdown
The Big Tennis Racquet in Barellan pays tribute to one of Australia's greatest sporting champions - Evonne Goolagong Cawley, who grew up in this small NSW farming town before conquering the tennis world. This impressive sculpture features an oversized wooden tennis racquet, representing the era when young Evonne first picked up the sport on the local courts. Goolagong Cawley went on to win 14 Grand Slam titles, including Wimbledon twice, becoming one of the most graceful and beloved players in tennis history. She remains the only Indigenous Australian to win a Grand Slam singles title, and the Big Tennis Racquet celebrates her remarkable journey from country town to worldwide acclaim.
Did you know?
"She is a Member of the Order of Australia and has a tennis center named after her"
History
The Big Tennis Racquet was erected in 1978 to honor Barellan's famous daughter, Evonne Goolagong Cawley. Born in 1951 to a Wiradjuri family, she grew up watching tennis through a fence before locals helped her develop her natural talent. She went on to win four Australian Open titles, two Wimbledon titles, and become one of tennis' most admired champions. The racquet stands as a tribute to her achievements and an inspiration for aspiring athletes everywhere.
More Fun Facts
- •Evonne Goolagong Cawley won 14 Grand Slam titles during her career
- •She won Wimbledon in 1971 and again in 1980, the second time as a mother
- •Goolagong means 'tall trees by still water' in the Wiradjuri language
- •She was known for her graceful playing style and warm personality
- •She is a Member of the Order of Australia and has a tennis center named after her
Visiting Tips
- 💡The local tennis courts where Evonne first played are still in use
- 💡Barellan is a small town - allow time to explore the quiet streets
- 💡The region produces excellent wheat and other grains
- 💡Combine with a visit to nearby Griffith for wineries and food
- 💡Great stop for sports fans doing a NSW country road trip
Opening Hours
The Big Tennis Racquet can be viewed at any time.
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Big Trout
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