That's what members of Bendigo Bridge club say about their beloved card game.

Bridge, a four person game played in teams of two is one of the oldest card games invented - the first rule book saw the light of day in 1866.

However, in Bendigo, a group of dedicated players are putting out a call out for more card-game fanatics to get involved.

Thankfully, there's not need to read the rulebook quite yet, as the Bendigo Bridge club is conducting free bridge lessons commencing February 6.

Every Tuesday evening at 7pm for the following 6 weeks, the club is holding classes at the Long Gully Community Centre.

Ken Simpson has been the club director for over 5 years.

"It's like 500," he said, "but quite a few steps up."

"I've been playing it for twenty years and I'm still learning."

Each week for the last twenty years, the members have been meeting on Friday afternoons for a social bridge tournament.

Often there are at least 20 to 30 players present, however COVID has meant numbers have slightly dropped.

"People are a bit nervous, but we're all wearing masks so we encourage everyone to come along," Mr Simpson said.

Club member Graham Forbes has been playing the game for decades and has no plans to stop anytime soon.

"I learnt overseas on an island called Bougainville in Papua New Guinea," he said.

"Then I came back here and played on the Mornington Peninsula, and now I'm here."

The group mainly consists of retirees, however there are several young people - including university students - that often get involved.

However, Mr Forbes says the club is open to everyone of all ages and all abilities.

"If you haven't got a partner we can set you up with someone," he said, "it's a really social event."

If you're up to the challenge, or just keen to try something new, you can contact the club on 0406 346 466 or email forbesgf@gmail.com.