It’s not every day you see a giant ping pong bat travelling along Great River Road but that was what many motorists saw last weekend as it made its way to Corryong.

Locals won’t miss the new sight when they go past the Corryong Baptist Church – the world’s largest ping pong bat in the front yard – signifying the venue for the upcoming Ping Pong-a-Thon.

Event organiser Craig Stephens said “We’re awaiting confirmation from the Guinness Book of Records but by dimensions, this bat is wider and about 50cms taller than the current record holder, located in Columbus, Ohio, USA.”

Craig said the monster bat was built as a challenge for local men and it was a case of “Challenge completed!”

This year’s 24-hour Ping Pong-a-Thon will take place from 3pm on Friday 20th September to 3pm on Saturday 21st September.

“Men of all ages are welcome to come along for a hit as they raise awareness and funds to fight modern-day slavery,” Craig said.

“Some 24-hour warriors will be playing right through the night if you’re up for the ultimate challenge or just come along for a few hours of fun.”

The local community has, in the past nine years, raised more than $53,000 from the charity event, reinforcing Corryong’s mantle as the world’s most generous town – so it’s fitting that it adds another world record with the big bat.

“In this 10th year the guys are looking to make it their biggest year yet with a target of raising $10,000,” Craig added.

All donations are tax deductible. For more details please contact Craig on 0427 001 204 or email cajstephens@gmail.com. You can donate or sign up to play for a few hours online at https://www.pingpongathon.com/t/corryongvictoria.

This article appeared in the Corryong Courier, 12 September 2024.