SEE YOU AT THE SUGAR BOWL!

44th Annual Sugar Bowl Tennis Tournament This Weekend!

The Home Hill Tennis Association is proud to host the 44th Annual Sugar Bowl this weekend—an iconic event and a sweet spot on the North Queensland tennis calendar.

This year, 42 teams have nominated, with matches played across the Home Hill and Ayr tennis courts. Each team consists of at least six players, with some fielding ten or more to allow for rest breaks. Games kick off at 8am Saturday and continue through to about 2 p.m. on Monday.

With over 300 visitors expected in the region, the event brings a welcome economic boost to the Burdekin—supporting local cafes, shops, and accommodations throughout the long weekend.

A special celebration will take place on Saturday at 7.45 am as Home Hill Tennis officially opens its newly upgraded amenities.

A Fresh Serve At The Sugar Bowl

The Sugar Bowl began in 1981, thanks to Lex and Pat Anderson, who invited team captains from places like Mackay and Ingham to compete in the inaugural tournament. Sadly, Pat passed away in January this year and we dedicate this year’s event to her. Fast-forward to today, teams now travel from as far as Brisbane to Mareeba to be part of the tradition with some individual players coming from interstate.

Returning champions, the Teabags, featuring Dallan and Kurtis Garvey, are back to defend their A Grade title. Challenging them is the Bartlett Division A1 team, led by Robert Bartlett—originally from Home Hill, now returning with a Brisbane-based team. In A2, keep an eye on Kylie Newman’s Post Card Lifers, packed with five Davies cousins and ex-Home Hill locals. In B Grade Here 4 Beer and Sweet Triers are also in with a definite chance of taking home the Hanson and Casswell Trophies.

A highlight of the weekend is the Woods Team Spirit Award, named in honour of David Woods, the original captain of the Teaspoons.

The Hon. Dale Last MP will preside over the ribbon-cutting ceremony. The previous facilities, built in 1957, have received a major upgrade thanks to a collaborative effort led by Mark Vass from Next Gen Building and local contractors.

The upgrade includes custom-designed privacy screens by artist Jane Hawkins, fabricated by Blakey Welding. Funding for the build came from multiple sources: $250,000 from the Queensland Government, $50,000 from Tennis Australia, and $62,500 from Home Hill Tennis funds, with support from the Burdekin Shire Council’s RADF grant.

The project was driven by Club secretary Kate Casswell, who not only wrote the successful grants but also served as the visionary behind the entire upgrade. “Mark and all the contractors did a great job, and I would thoroughly recommend Next Gen,” she said. “The finished building is exactly what we envisaged—and so much more.”

We also extend a big thank you to all our past and present sponsors and supporters—your continued backing made this ambitious project possible, despite challenges with infrastructure and existing courts.

Sunday night, all are invited to enjoy a taste of Burdekin hospitality with live music by Jason Clark (Townsville artist) from 5pm, delicious food including roast pork rolls, and a fun, relaxed vibe. For those wishing to have a drink, transport back to Ayr can be arranged.

Lastly, thank you to the volunteers, sponsors, and donors who help make this event possible. For more updates, check out the Home Hill Tennis Facebook page. Life members, sponsors, and all supporters—past and present—are warmly invited to join the weekend festivities and Monday’s presentation ceremony around 2pm.

Contributed with thanks to Home Hill Tennis.

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Kylie Newman's Post Card Lifers - Brooke, Jacklyn, Helen, Jodie and Kylie. Photo supplied

The Sugar Bowl began in 1981, thanks to Lex and Pat Anderson

James Casswell's The Shoeys

Rose, Donna and Alan Hanson (Life Member and former Patron)

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