Chess fanatics on the Bellarine Peninsula are keen to get the 2023 season underway.
Locals in and around Portarlington have been getting involved in the activity, which is run by the Portarlington Neighbourhood House’s Stan Rusiniak.
Stan, who is the chess club’s facilitator, believes that the club is for anyone who’s interested in chess.
Members spoke of how highly they regard the club.
Hans Lemmens, the club coordinator: “Being a member isn’t just about learning to ambush your opponent’s king, it’s about the people.”
Wayne Harris, the club’s top player: “You can play chess online and all that sort of stuff, but the nice thing about chess is that you can meet each other and chat to others playing. Although we are often quite boisterous, constantly laughing and stirring one another, this gives the players – beginners and the experienced alike – an opportunity to quiz and analyse one another throughout the game.”
Hugh Peters, one of the club’s founding members: “It can be a very exciting sport to watch. Because unlike football or other sports where, by watching, you don’t exactly take part…in chess you can quietly make your own computations and predictions as the game goes on. You can bring yourself to the position of the players.”
Youngster Evan Clarke: “Chess is in my blood, and I don’t think I can get rid of it. I’m probably just an average player, but I am improving. I enjoy the game, I enjoy the people and I enjoy the environment.”
Darryl Graves: “It’s not a strict club. It’s just meant to be fun to checkmate friends. It’s fine if you don’t know how to play. There’s no better place to learn.”
There are plenty of options for beginners and experienced players looking to get into chess on the Bellarine.
Portarlington: 5259 2290, enquiry@portnh.org.au
Ocean Grove: 5255 2996, djsapwell999@gmail.com
St Leonards: 5292 2162, stleonardsspace@gmail.com
