Sport
26 May, 2026
Five decades of activity, fun and squash
For half a century, Gail Oliver has enjoyed the physical and social benefits of playing squash, encouraging others to reap the rewards of the beginner-friendly racket sport.
Starting as a 30-year-old beginner at Ferntree Gully in 1976, Oliver quickly moved up the ranks of the metropolitan grades, eventually playing at the state level.
When she moved to the Goldfields area in 1982, Oliver quickly joined the squash club in Avoca before also becoming a member of the Maryborough Squash Club in 1984.
One look at the club’s honour boards hanging above the three squash courts at Tullaroop Leisure Centre immediately indicates the impact Oliver has had on squash in Maryborough, having won multiple ladies' championships and spent countless hours as a coach and committee member.
Despite recently celebrating her 80th birthday, Oliver continues to play and organise Maryborough’s weekly Monday pennant, still as passionate as she was when she first picked up a racket.
According to Oliver, it was love at first boast.
“As soon as I got on the court, I knew that was going to be my game,” she said.
“I still love this sport after 50 years, even if I’m not playing at the same standard.
“I lived in Singapore for nearly three years and played badminton. When I came back to Melbourne, there was no badminton club nearby, but there was a squash club.”
“I just love to run around, try and hit the ball and use the skills that I’ve learned over the years.”
While her age prohibits her from participating in other physical activities, Oliver said squash continues to provide her with essential exercise without adding strain to her body.
“It's definitely kept me flexible and mobile, I have a very good heart rate and no blood pressure problems or anything, so health-wise for me it’s been a great benefit,” she said.
“I also love the social aspect of it. I think that’s really important.
“I have met so many really nice people. It’s especially rewarding to see new players come and stick with it and work their way up.”
Alongside the health benefits, Oliver said that players of all ages and abilities can easily pick up squash and quickly see rapid improvements to their on-court skills.
As she still finds enjoyment after 50 years, Oliver asks residents to consider taking up squash, particularly if they have experience with similar racket sports.
“Just come along, we will put you on a court and have a hit, especially if you’ve had tennis experience or maybe you played squash many years ago, give it a go and start gently,” she said.
“I think having played any racket sport gives you very good hand-eye coordination. You already know how to follow the flight of the ball.
“One of the beauties of the sport is that regardless of what the season conditions are outside, it can be enjoyed all year round because it's indoors.”
The Maryborough Squash Club plays on Mondays at the Tullaroop Leisure Centre starting at 7 pm.