Honouring A Table Tennis Legend

Charlie Payne

Charlie Payne first picked up a table tennis bat at the age of nine. This year, after an incredible 62 years of service to the sport, he quietly stepped away from the game—but not from the community he helped shape.

Charlie has been at the heart of the Mackay Table Tennis Association for decades. He served in key leadership roles, including President and Secretary, and long before computers handled tournament draws, Charlie created them manually for major events such as the Mackay Open and Closed.

Beyond administration, Charlie brought the game to life through words. With a background as Sports Editor at the Daily Mercury, his reports didn’t just share scores—they captured the drama, excitement, and human moments behind each match. Whether published in print or later on Facebook, Charlie’s stories made the action leap off the page, enabling readers to visualise each rally with vivid clarity.

Photography became another of Charlie’s lasting contributions. Often seen on the sidelines with camera in hand, he quietly documented thousands of matches, capturing candid moments and player milestones that are now treasured memories within the club.

Charlie’s dedication extended beyond the court. He volunteered at bingo nights for many years and was always ready to lend a hand. His wife Rhonda recalls their first wedding anniversary being spent at a Table Tennis Committee meeting on 10 November 1980—an example of the commitment Charlie gave to the sport.

In his playing days, Charlie travelled widely, competing in Cairns, Townsville, Ayr, Rockhampton and Bundaberg. He earned his State Umpire Accreditation and, true to his generous nature, never declined a hit—regardless of a player’s level. That openness left a lasting impression on generations of players.

Family was central to Charlie’s journey in the sport. In 1985, he encouraged his niece Andrea to attend a junior table tennis camp, soon followed by her brother Mark.

“We’ve had great family battles over the years—what we called the ‘Payne Family War’,” Andrea says.

“Mark and I are so proud of Uncle Charlie. He’s supported us and so many others through his encouragement and quiet leadership.”

Former President Rosie Dittman said, “Whether it was a cheeky forehand or a perfectly timed photo, Charlie made the sport better for all of us.

“Thanks for the memories, the matches, and the moments you helped capture.”

Charlie Payne’s contributions—on the court, behind the lens, and through his words—have helped shape Mackay Table Tennis into one of Queensland’s most respected associations.

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photos supplied

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