06/10/2025
Dear players and supporters,
Thank you very much for your interest in the proposed Australasian Women’s Masters, scheduled to be held alongside the Men’s Masters from 12–20 December 2025 at the Melbourne Chess Club.
Despite extensive efforts to assemble a strong international field, including invitations to over thirty titled and highly rated players from across Oceania and South-East Asia, only a small number of positive responses have been received. Unfortunately, without sufficient titled or international participants, the event would not meet the requirements to be registered as a FIDE title norm tournament.
With the FIDE registration deadline now approaching, and in view of the limited confirmed participation, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the Australasian Women’s Masters for 2025.
We appreciate the enthusiasm and encouragement shown by many players and supporters throughout the planning process, and we remain committed to hosting future women’s international events in Melbourne when there is stronger availability and interest from prospective participants.
Thank you once again for your understanding and ongoing support of women’s chess in our region.
Warm regards,
Gary Bekker
On behalf of the Organising Committee
Australasian Masters 2025
