A Legacy of Tennis Since 1935

Holmesdale Memorial Tennis Club (HMTC) has been a valued part of the local tennis community for nearly a century. Founded on December 4, 1935, the club has grown from a small gathering of passionate players into a thriving and inclusive tennis hub.

The Beginning

On a summer evening in 1935, six ladies and 11 gentlemen met at Trinity Gardens Hall to establish the Holmesdale Memorial Reserve Association. Their vision was to develop and manage a piece of land left to the Payneham District Council—now known as the John Horrocks Memorial Reserve.

The first steps toward building the club began with the creation of three bitumen tennis courts, thanks to support from the Payneham Council. By the end of 1937, six courts were completed, surrounded by fencing. With the courts in place, the Holmesdale Memorial Tennis Club was officially formed, taking over management of the reserve.

Growth & Success

By 1947, the club had expanded to 116 members, and for the first time, four teams entered the Saturday competition. A focus on junior development led to the introduction of junior teams in 1954, and just two years later, membership peaked at 186 players.

HMTC continued to thrive, entering teams across all six available grades in the 1958/59 season—all of which reached the finals. Over the decades, the club built a reputation for being both competitive and community-focused, fostering a welcoming environment for players of all ages and abilities.

A Progressive & Inclusive Club

HMTC has always been committed to making tennis accessible to everyone. Recently, we have embraced wheelchair tennis, ensuring that players of all abilities can enjoy the sport. This initiative reflects our dedication to inclusivity, diversity, and growing the game within the wider community.

Looking to the Future

As we continue to evolve, HMTC remains focused on providing high-quality facilities, expert coaching, and a strong sense of community. With a mix of competition, social tennis, and inclusive programs, we are committed to ensuring that tennis remains a lifelong sport for all.

Whether you’re a seasoned competitor, a social player, or new to the game, HMTC welcomes you to be part of our ongoing history and bright future.