Pickleball Australia | Walk for Parkinson's

April is Parkinson's Awareness Month. To mark the occasion, Pickleball Australia will join The Big Walk 2026 in Brisbane on Sunday, April 19.

The event, hosted by Parkinson’s Queensland, is a community awareness and fundraising initiative that encourages movement for people of all abilities and supports Queenslanders living with Parkinson’s.

Pickleball Australia will run a free come-and-try session from 10am to 12pm, with a taped court and paddles available for anyone who wants to have a hit. Everyone is welcome, regardless of age, fitness level, mobility, or experience.

More than 150,000 Australians live with Parkinson’s, and 50 people are diagnosed each day. One of them is Michael Tomasoni, an active pickleball player from Victoria. We spoke with Michael to learn about his experience and how pickleball has helped him.

How did you first get into pickleball?
"Pickleball was recommended to me by my physiotherapist. At the time (2022), the benefits that pickleball could provide to those with Parkinson's were just starting to be discussed. It was believed that pickleball would enhance mobility, coordination, balance, flexibility, and cognitive skills"

Where do you play?
"I try to play in a number of different venues. I am a member of Manningham Pickleball Clubs here in Victoria. As mentioned, I do like to mix it up a bit, playing different people at different venues exposes you to different styles of play, as opposed to being exposed to the same level and style and play on an ongoing basis. I feel that playing at different venues against a variety of opponents assists in improving your game. Some of the other  venues I have played at include: Darebin , Doncaster SC, Princess Hill in Carlton, Caulfield Park, Eltham, Eastern Indoor , Heathmont, and Moorabbin."

What do you love about the sport?
"Pickleball can be played by anyone at any age or level. I'm somewhat competitive and enjoy the challenge it brings. Playing against someone with a higher DUPR is a true test, which I welcome. It's a great cardio workout; I often leave the court drenched, but my fitness has improved, and I've lost a kilo or two. Overall, I love pickleball for keeping me active, healthy, and giving me a competitive edge."

Do you have any advice for people with Parkinson's who might be interested?
"The best advice I can give is: if in doubt, try it. You'll never know unless you do. Don't worry about skill level—pickleball caters to everyone. Don't be afraid to attend a session or visit a club on your own; I've done this myself. In my experience, most venues are welcoming and friendly. With so many options now, you may need to try a few before you find the one that fits you best."

"I would also mention that participating in pickleball offers a great social environment, and those with Parkinsons know how important it is to maintain healthy social activity."

Thank you to Michael for taking the time to speak with us.

We encourage anyone in Brisbane (or visiting) to come down to The Big Walk on April 19 and give pickleball a go between 10am and 12pm!