History
In 1927 a few lovers of tennis took up an offer of land from the then Nerang Council, to build tennis courts bordering a swamp in Connor Street in the village of Burleigh Heads, and Burleigh Heads Tennis Club was born. Eighty nine years later, the same club proudly serves the community thanks to the dedication of many office bearers and supporters over the years.
On 1st March 1968, a community meeting was called to reform the Burleigh Heads Tennis Club. At this meeting, Australian tennis icon Fred Stolle, a giant in Australian tennis lore, was appointed Patron of the club, and held this esteemed position for the next ten years.
During 1968 and 1969 Ken Rosewall, Fred Stolle, the Italian Touring Team, Bill & Lesley Bowrey used the BHTC courts to practice and refine their tennis skills.
On 17th February 2002 BHTC Celebrated its 75th Anniversary. During the 75th celebrations, BHTC Life Member Mr Arthur Harris accepted on behalf of the club a signed photograph of Fred Stolle which was sent to the club by Mr Stolle on this great occasion and asked him to position this memento in the BHTC club house. The Fred Stolle Memento still hangs proudly inside the BHTC Club House, along with other photos and memorabilia showing the early history of the club and Burleigh Heads.
Fred Stolle Player Profile:
http://www.tennis.com.au/player-profiles/fred-stolle
Life Members
The following members have been awarded life membership in recognition of their long standing commitment and service to the club:
- Sue Baker
- Zelda Berg
- Colin Crepin
- Arthur Harris
- Pam Harris
- Stan Hawker
- Craig Holt
- Jan Johns
- Val Murphy
- Kaye Parsons
- Steve Raison
- William Scott
- Norma Thompson
- Jo Ward