The CWTA was one of three associations nominated in the Most Outstanding Competition category, for their junior "orange ball" program.

The program allows youngsters the chance to play competitive tennis at a younger age, with a shortened court and a modified, more manageable orange tennis ball.

Former CWTA president Kate-Lyn Perkin attended the event and said there was a slight touch of drama when the winner was announced.

"It was a little bit exciting but a little bit confusing at the same time," Perkin said.

"There were three associations up for the award, Eastern Region, Waverly and Central Wimmera.

"The CEO of Tennis Victoria announced it as "Central Waverly", instead of Central Wimmera.

"We were a bit like, 'is that actually us, or?' We had to look up to the screen.

"It was a bit funny, but very exciting."

Perkin said it was rewarding to be recognised as a smaller association taking on an inventive program.

"It's really great - we've put ourselves on the map with Tennis Victoria and shown what we can do," she said.

"It's actually a big thing even for the whole of tennis in Victoria, to see that little associations that are a bit unique can take on Tennis Victoria initiatives and make them their own.

"You can change things and make them work for you.

"I think little Central Wimmera is going to be kept an eye on a little bit more."

When the association was nominated, coach and CWTA president Jeremy Quast said it was a reflection of the region's passion for tennis.

"I think it's great for the town to be a finalist," Quast said.

"The achievement really represents the community as a whole. All clubs embraced it, everyone got on board. It's not just one individual person, everyone got on board, promoted it and embraced it, and that's what made it work."

The awards ceremony was hosted at The Pulman in Melbourne and was hosted by Australian tennis icon Todd Woodbridge.

Former world number four Jelana Dokic was also a guest speaker at the event.

"There were about 200 people there I reckon, and just a really positive, bubbly atmosphere, everyone was really excited," Perkin said.

"It was a very big event and pretty cool to be a part of."

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