How a Pub Idea Created Australia’s Beloved “Coota Beach” Volleyball Tournament
It all started down at the pub. Simon Sutherland gazed out the window one day. He looked at a tar road intersection and had a wild idea.”What if we put in a beach volleyball court?” he wondered. This town sits 400 kilometers from the nearest beach. Therefore, the idea seemed completely absurd at first.
Bringing Bali to the Bush
Sutherland, now 51, wanted to bring Bali’s vibe to his hometown. He dreamed of recreating the party atmosphere of Kuta Beach. Cootamundra would become “Coota Beach” for a day.
That night, he went home and drew up plans. The first tournament lasted just one day. However, it sparked something much bigger.
Twenty-Five Years of Growth
Twenty-five years have passed since that pub conversation. The event has grown dramatically. It now spans three full days. It became a cultural and sporting highlight for the town.Locals absolutely love the annual tradition. Tourists flock to participate and watch. As a result, the event brings in an estimated $2 million in revenue.
Bigger Than Christmas
Eighty-six-year-old Pat Roberts attends every year. She has made cheering for her family a summer tradition. “In a way, I think it’s bigger than Christmas,” she told the BBC.
This Cootamundra beach volleyball tournament proves great ideas can come anywhere. Even from a pub window in a tiny country town.
