Dating of tennis photo - Bertha Smith dress and racquet

[Westby]

I'd appreciate help in dating this photo. I'm thinking pre-WW1, but I'd be interested if anyone could help with the dress and racquet.  It was taken in a country area of Australia, so would not have been the latest fashion in terms of dress or equipment.

The subject was born in 1893, so I'm guessing she'd be in her mid-late teens.

Thanks in advance.

[japeflakes]

Around 1910-12 perhaps

[Wiggy]

Reckon you about right with your estimate, Westby!  That was my guess before reading your post.

Wiggy.

[Handypandy]

Not requested I know, but couldn't resist a bit of a clean up......

[McGroger]

I'd agree with the other assessments: late teens, pre-WW1; and like Andy I couldn't resist having a play.

Added: She's prominently displaying a decorative ring on her right hand; I wonder if it would have had some special significance that could help with a date.

Peter

[Jebber]

I also agree with it being pre WW1. I have a group photo of my grandmother and her tennis friends, they were wearing similar dresses. It was taken before she moved to South Africa in 1911.

[Gillg]

Interesting shoes with heels.  Difficult for playing on a grass court, which I think was more usual in those days.

[Westby]

Thanks @Handypandy.  The photo looks so much better now.

In relation to the shoes, @Gillg, this was a very early settlement in Western Australia, so it would not have been grass - probably some kind of dirt/sawdust surface I imagine.

@McGroger I also noticed the ring. I think she was engaged before her fiance went to France in 1916, so perhaps this was a friendship ring?

Thanks all for your insights and asisstance.