Great Aussie Athlete BBQ & Interclub Tennis Challenge

Western Suburbs Townsville vs Home Hill & Ayr

The Great Aussie Athlete BBQ is a celebration of sport, summer and mateship, while raising vital funds for the Aussie Athlete Fund. This initiative is powered by everyday Australians, schools, clubs and businesses working together to support young athletes across the country.

Funds raised help cover training, travel, coaching, wellbeing and access to sport, giving emerging athletes the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Did you know that 46% of athletes who represent Australia live below the poverty line, earning less than $23,000 per year? In 2025, the Aussie Athlete Fund supported over 100 emerging athletes across 20 different sports, with a particular focus on athletes from regional areas who face higher travel costs.

The fund was founded by Natalie Cook, Olympic gold medallist in beach volleyball at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. Natalie has strong ties to North Queensland, with her mother born and raised in Ayr, and Cape Upstart being one of her favourite holiday destinations.

This year, Western Suburbs Tennis Club in Townsville and Home Hill and Ayr Tennis players are joining the movement as part of their annual Interclub Tennis Challenge on Friday, March 20.

The Great Aussie BBQ will begin at 6:00 pm, with all funds raised going directly to the Aussie Athlete Fund. Spectators and supporters are warmly invited to come along and enjoy the evening.

Home Hill and Wests have built a strong rivalry over the years. Home Hill claimed victory in the first three ties, but in recent matchups Western Suburbs have come out on top, setting the stage for another exciting contest.

It promises to be a fun, social and competitive night of tennis, all while supporting the next generation of Australian athletes.

Contributed with thanks to Home Hill Tennis Association Secretary, Kate Caswell

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