Dear National Championships competitors

There is only one week to go until the 2021 National Senior, Youth, Junior & Para Championships get underway at Caloundra Indoor Stadium. Further updates have arisen since our last communication and the following information is aimed at providing clarity on some key areas for participants:

NSW Participation

Unfortunately, the Queensland Government has declared Greater Sydney, the Central Coast, Blue Mountains, Wollongong and Shellharbour as COVID-19 hotspots. This means that nearly all NSW team members are currently unable to enter Queensland. This situation is unfortunate and bad timing, but it is outside the control of TTA as it is a Queensland Government decision.

If Queensland border restrictions are relaxed by next Thursday 1 July, TTA will still allow NSW players to enter individual events for Senior, Youth & Junior events. Although this scenario appears unlikely, we would prefer to give as much time as possible to provide an opportunity for as many NSW players as possible to compete. If this scenario arises, TTA will contact all NSW players with further information.

Victorian Participation

Fortunately, the Queensland Government has removed all COVID-19 hotspots in Victoria. This means that the Victorian team will be able to travel to Queensland without restrictions to compete at the event.

Competition draws

The Event Prospectus states that the competition draws will be released by no later than 28 June. However, taking into consideration the current situation in NSW, TTA has decided to release the draws as follows:

• TEAM EVENTS for Senior, Youth & Junior: TTA will release the draws by no later than Wednesday 30 June.
• INDIVIDUAL EVENTS for Senior, Youth & Junior: TTA will release the draws by no later than Saturday 3 July.
• Para events: As originally planned, TTA will release the Para draws next Thursday 1 July once Para Classification is complete.

Although it is not our preference to stagger the release of the competition draws, this is the fairest way to give the best chance for as many NSW players as possible to compete.

Declaration to enter Queensland

Everyone entering Queensland must complete a declaration to enter Queensland within 3 days prior to departure. Full details on the requirements and all COVID-19 related information can be viewed at: https://www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19/current-status/public-health-directions/travelling-to-queensland

When will more information be provided in relation to the event?

TTA will provide further updates when any news arises. Participants should work on the assumption that no news being provided is a good outcome. Rest assured that if there are any developments we will keep you informed immediately.

Scott Houston

Chief Executive Officer

Table Tennis Australia Ltd.