The Bundanoon Open Scrabble Tournament was held at Bundanoon Public School on Saturday.

There were 58 Scrabble players from across the Highlands, Canberra, Wollongong and the South Coast on the day.

Ages ranged from eight to 80, across a range of different skill levels.

Robertson couple Nigel and Catriona Walker played their first game at the tournament on Saturday. “We’ve been playing for years at home,” Mr Walker said. “We noticed an ad to come and play Scrabble in Moss Vale.”

Mr Walker said playing Scrabble at a tournament level had its perks. “I’ve learnt more new words than I knew existed,” he said. “It’s a lot of fun and it keeps your brain active. The game is great for your memory.”

Tournament director John Hamilton said this year the turn-out was the biggest yet for the annual Bundanoon Scrabble tournament.

“It’s the most people we’ve ever had,” Mr Hamilton said. “I think it’s because [the Highlands] is a central location for everyone. “It’s also word of mouth – the Scrabble community is tight-knit.”

There is a national Scrabble rating, which is based on how many games a person plays and how difficult their opponents are.

“It’s a competitive scene, but everyone is friendly,” Mr Hamilton said.

At the end of the tournament, prizes were distributed to the person with the highest word score, highest game score and most improved game.

Visit www.scrabblensw.org.au for more information or to find a Scrabble club.