01/06/2026
It is with great regret and sadness that we advise of the passing of George Chen.
Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with George's family and friends during this difficult time.
George will be fondly remembered by those whose lives he touched, and he will be greatly missed.
The following tribute was written by Ern, a long-time committee member of DVTTA:
VALE George Chen
For more than four decades George has played competition table tennis with the DVTTA. Although almost 90 years of age he had slowed down, but was still actively playing, and filled in for a team just over three weeks ago. He deservedly was held in great respect and admiration by his team members and opponents.
George was an accomplished and successful business man who also had a passion for table tennis. Consequently he also played at various other venues (socially and competitively) as well as participating in numerous tournaments. At Diamond Valley he invariably captained each team, which was always named Golden Orchids (after his restaurant in Little Bourke Street).
George almost never missed playing a pennant season and had outstanding success in both A1 and A2 grades (now known as Sections 1 & 2) featuring in countless Grand Finals winning an impressive percentage. In Section 2, for many years, he was the benchmark player rated the number one player in the grade, and is arguably the clubhouse leader for the winning the most Leading Player Awards throughout the history of the DVTTA competition.
George twice earned third place in our player of the year award (Jim Gawne Trophy) in 2004 and 2009 and featured in the top 10 ranking on several other occasions.
Match regulations required Leading Players to be moved to a higher grade so George alternated between Sections 1 & 2 for many years, until he was approximately 80 years old. At this time players chatted and there was a ‘mutual agreement’ among competitors that George was better suited, and would enjoy his table tennis more, by remaining in the lower Section and was subsequently was no longer promoted after winning further Leading Player pennants.
Frequently players new to the Section would underestimate George as he did not have a classical style and they incorrectly assumed he was too old, but almost every one of them experience defeat at his hands with his “dead bat”, use of pimples and excellent reflexes. He had an amazing ability to anticipate and block attacking shots which unsettled and ultimately brought opponents undone. No one had a easy match playing George. Afterall, you had to come prepared for a fight, and fight for every point, as it is hard to beat a person who never gives up.
George introduced many new players to the DVTTA and this was greatly appreciated as it refreshed and renewed the competition. He also sponsored a group of Guanzhong players to Australia who gave an exhibition match at Diamond Valley playing against Australian representatives and our top individual players. A rare and memorable opportunity for a club, and DVTTA members, to experience in person top Chinese international players including the World’s top ranked female player and World’s number 6 male player in action.
George played fairly and with integrity. He was humble, honourable and gracious in victory or defeat. You could always rely on him and he will be greatly missed, but has left an indelible impression on history of the DVTTA.
Over the years many DVTTA players visited him at his Golden Orchids restaurant for a meal and many also consider George a friend.
Rest in peace treasured friend.
