WITH a nickname like Mrs Tennis, it is fair to assume that Heather Lees has a strong affiliation with the sport. So much so that she received a Tennis Victoria Highly Commended Service Award.
Shepparton local, Heather Lees, has had a remarkable 60-year involvement in local tennis, including 39 years of official service, which has made her one of the true cornerstones of the Goulburn region tennis community.
Heather’s dedication has spanned countless roles across the Shepparton Junior Tennis Association (SJTA), Shepparton & District Tennis Association (SDTA), Shepparton North Tennis Club (SNTC), and the Victorian Country Tennis Association (VCTA). Her leadership, organisation, and care for others have shaped generations of players and volunteers alike.
Heather’s service began at SNTC, where she served as Secretary and Treasurer from 1978 to 1987 and coordinated junior teams for 15 years. Her commitment to developing young players extended through her long involvement with the SJTA, including terms as President, Vice President, Treasurer, Registrar and Public Officer. Over more than three decades, she ensured competitions ran smoothly, often managing administrative duties, registrations and events simultaneously.
Beyond Shepparton, her influence was present statewide through her work with the VCTA, where she has been a committee member since 1985, a Junior Squad Coordinator for over 20 years, and a Goulburn Region delegate.
A Life Member of SNTC, SJTA and SDTA, Heather was also recognised with the Tennis Victoria Country Champion Award in 2016 for her outstanding service.
Heather’s story is one of quiet leadership and unwavering community spirit. Whether mentoring junior players, coordinating regional squads, or welcoming families into the sport, she has done it all with humility and warmth. Supported throughout by her husband Doug, Heather’s dedication has left an indelible mark on Victorian tennis.
