May 6, 2026

45 Teams Mark 45 Years of the Burdekin’s premier tennis tournament

45 teams from across Queensland met in Home Hill last weekend, duelling for glory in what was the 45th edition of the region’s esteemed Sugar Bowl tennis tournament. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

The Burdekin’s locally famous Sugar Bowl tennis tournament made its return to the region last week, welcoming 45 teams from across the state for a weekend of rallies and rivalries.

Emerald Tennis Club’s Keg Slayers took out the A Grade men’s competition. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

Sugar Bowl Returns For 45th Year

45 teams from across Queensland met in Home Hill last weekend, duelling for glory in what was the 45th edition of the region’s esteemed Sugar Bowl tennis tournament.

Men’s and women’s teams travelled from as far as Brisbane, competing in a traditional round-robin format across A Grade, A2 Grade and B Grade divisions from Saturday, 2 May to Monday, 4 May.

The M&M’s claiming the women’s A Grade title for a fourth time. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

Emerald Tennis Club’s Keg Slayers took out the A Grade men’s competition, with M&M’s claiming the women’s A Grade title for a fourth time.

A2 Grade men’s champions TTT dominated the division, while the Lady Bugs pipped their A2 women’s rivals to glory.

A2 Grade men’s champions TTT dominated the division. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

The Shoeys edged the Wackers to claim men’s B Grade glory, and the Hot Shots proved too strong for the women’s B division after a comfortable victory.

Both Col’s Crew and the Sugar Hits were recognised with Team Spirit awards to tie off the eventful three days.

The Lady Bugs pipped their A2 women’s rivals to glory. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

Home Hill Tennis Association secretary Kate Casswell said the event was another feather in the cap of the club, continuing the tournament’s 45-year history with another successful edition.

“It was such a successful year with a really strong field. The quality we saw from the A men’s in particular this year was next level,” Ms Casswell said.

The Shoeys edged the Wackers to claim men’s B Grade glory Photo credit: Jacob Casha

She said the event garnered significant interest from the tennis community.

“Tennis really picks up locally—even in Townsville—because this is a big thing on the calendar for them. They want to come to play, compete and have fun,” she said.

The Hot Shots proved too strong for the women’s B division after a comfortable victory. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

Ms Casswell said the influx of visitors also boosted local business, with around 1,000 players and spectators filling local accommodation and supporting businesses throughout the long weekend.

She thanked the committee, team captains and the Ayr-Home Hill Lions Club for their efforts in facilitating the event that was just as much social as it was competitive.

“The highlight for me is just seeing all the teams come and have a great time together—the positivity and the energy that comes from it,” she said.

Col’s Crew was recognised with the Team Spirit award to tie off the eventful three days. Photo credit: Jacob Casha