A 19th-century Chinese game is bringing people together in a small bayside town on the Bellarine Peninsula.
Each Thursday afternoon, a lively group of mahjong players gathers at St Leonards Community Space and what began earlier this year has quickly grown into a thriving social hub, offering connection, mental stimulation, and plenty of laughter.
“I was astonished at how much interest there was and how quickly it has grown in our small, family-friendly, beautiful town,” club coordinator Lucy Peacock said.
The group’s mahjong teacher, experienced player Joan Ovelli, said while the game looks complicated at first glance, newcomers quickly get the hang of it.
“It’s about creating winning hands of tiles and outfoxing opponents,” she said.
Mahjong is often compared to gin rummy. Players aim to form a complete hand of four sets (called melds) and a pair. Sets can be Pongs (three of a kind), Chows (three consecutive tiles of the same suit), or Kongs (four of a kind). The first player to complete a valid hand and call “mahjong” wins the round.
With around 15 regular members, the club is steadily building its reputation as a warm and welcoming community space.
“There’s nothing like it around. It creates great companionship and so much laughter. The club provides a lot of fun and enjoyment,” Patsy Thomas said.
Shirley Potts described it as “a special place for people to connect in person, fostering friendships and offering an escape.”
Margaret McKenzie, a keen player, highlights the game’s benefits for mental sharpness and social connection, as well as the joy of meeting new people.
For Robyn Davis, the secret to the club’s success lies in its balance of challenge and companionship.
“It gives people regular social interaction while also keeping us on our toes with the game itself,” she said.
The Mahjong Club meets every Thursday at 2pm at St Leonards Community Space and new players are welcome.
