Tennyson Receives Rate Cut and Access Upgrade in 2025-26 Budget

Tennyson has been marked for a residential rates reduction and nearby infrastructure funding under the 2025 BCC budget.



Budget Relief and Infrastructure Upgrade for Tennyson

Tennyson is among just three suburbs in Brisbane set to receive a decrease in owner-occupier rates as part of BCC’s 2025–26 budget. Additionally, nearby infrastructure used by Tennyson residents—the Walter Taylor Bridge between Chelmer and Indooroopilly—has been allocated funding for continued restoration.

Tennyson rates
Photo Credit: Google Maps

Suburbs-First Spending Confirmed

The $4.1 billion budget directs 85 per cent of spending into suburban areas. Tennyson residents will benefit from a 0.93 per cent decrease in their average residential rates due to changes in land valuations. By contrast, other suburbs will see rate rises of up to 7.5 per cent.

Walter Taylor Bridge Works Progressing

Although not located within Tennyson, the Walter Taylor Bridge serves as a key access point for the suburb. The bridge will undergo continued restoration works funded in this year’s budget. Planned works include structural repairs, rendering, and repainting, with completion expected ahead of the bridge’s 90th anniversary in February 2026.

Previous structural maintenance was undertaken last year, and this latest funding phase was confirmed following community concerns about the bridge’s condition.

Broader Budget Measures

Across Brisbane, owner-occupier rates will rise by an average of 3.87 per cent, with increases capped at 7.5 per cent. A new $100 annual surcharge will apply to inner-city unit owners purchasing after October 1. Meanwhile, a waste levy of $49.52 will be introduced citywide for green bins, even for those opting out of the service.

Brisbane budget
Photo Credit: Google Maps

Community Response and Implications

Residents in affected suburbs have raised affordability concerns due to increased rates and charges. In contrast, Tennyson’s combination of rate reduction and access to improved transport infrastructure has been regarded by some as a favourable outcome under this year’s budget.

Looking Ahead



With residential rates set to fall and improved connectivity through planned bridge restoration, Tennyson is one of the few suburbs positioned to benefit from the BCC’s 2025–26 budget. While most areas brace for increased costs, the Tennyson community will see both financial relief and infrastructure investment in the year ahead.

Published 20-June-2025

Confirmed: Queensland Tennis Centre Set for Major Upgrade for 2032 Olympics

Authorities have confirmed that Tennis Queensland has secured the critical funding it needs, as part of the State’s 2032 Delivery Plan. This investment will support a range of upgrades designed to enhance both player and spectator experiences while leaving a lasting sporting legacy.


Read: Queensland Tennis Centre Needs Upgrades or Risks Losing Olympics


Queensland Tennis Centre Upgrades

Photo credit: tennis.com.au

The highlight of the expansion is a brand-new 3,000-seat roofed arena, offering an enhanced viewing experience and all-weather capabilities. Additionally, 12 new International Tennis Federation (ITF) specification courts will be constructed to meet the minimum requirements for Olympic and Paralympic competition. 

Player facilities will also be upgraded to accommodate the large influx of athletes, support personnel, and spectators expected during the Games.

Tennis Queensland CEO, Cameron Pearson, expressed his enthusiasm for the announcement, emphasising the importance of these upgrades in ensuring the QTC remains a premier venue.

“While the QTC initially met community and event needs when it opened in 2009, it requires essential upgrades to be fit for purpose for the Olympic and Paralympic tennis events – this funding is critical to deliver that,” Pearson stated.

Photo credit: Kelvin S/Google Maps

Tennis Australia CEO, Craig Tiley, also welcomed the funding, highlighting the centre’s vital role in the success of the Games.

“The Queensland Tennis Centre is integral to the success of the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2032, and we are delighted to be able to host this major event in what will be a world-class venue,” Tiley said.

“This project will deliver significant economic benefits for Queensland, and at the same time inspire future generations of tennis players and fans, ensuring a lasting legacy that stays within the state for years to come.”

A Lasting Sporting Legacy

Beyond the 2032 Olympics, the Queensland Tennis Centre enhancements will offer long-term benefits by addressing the growing community demand for tennis court access. The upgraded facility will also serve as a premier venue for future major events, including the prestigious Brisbane International.


Read: Ash Barty Comparisons Abound as Emerson Jones Rises from Tennyson Courts


The 2032 Delivery Plan outlines a total of 14 new and existing venue upgrades across Queensland, reflecting the State’s commitment to delivering world-class sporting infrastructure. The Queensland Tennis Centre expansion marks a significant step forward in ensuring Brisbane is well-prepared to host the world’s best athletes while fostering a strong sporting culture for future generations.

Published 26-March-2025

Australian Team Announced for Billie Jean King Cup in Tennyson

Five Australian women, including debutant Maya Joint, will battle Kazakhstan and Colombia at Pat Rafter Arena in Tennyson for a spot in the Billie Jean King Cup Finals.



The Australian Billie Jean King Cup team, led by captain Sam Stosur, is set to compete in Brisbane next month. The team includes Kimberly Birrell, Ajla Tomljanovic, Ellen Perez, and Storm Hunter, alongside 18-year-old Maya Joint, who will make her international debut.

Sixteen-year-old Emerson Jones will join the team as the Orange Girl and gain experience training with the senior players. The competition will occur at Pat Rafter Arena in Tennyson from 10 to 12 April, 2025.

Team Selection and Expectations

Stosur expressed her excitement about the team, highlighting Birrell’s recent form, achieving a career-high world ranking. She also emphasised Tomljanovic’s experience, competitive spirit, and the strength that Perez and Hunter bring to the doubles matches, especially following Hunter’s return from injury.

Stosur believes that Joint has earned her place in the team after a successful 12 months and is confident that she will perform well in her debut. The captain also spoke about the importance of including Jones as the Orange Girl, recognising her as a promising young player who will benefit from the experience.

Competition Details and Opponents

Australian Team Announced for Billie Jean King Cup in Tennyson
Photo Credit: Bille Jean King Cup

Australia will face Kazakhstan and Colombia in a series of ties, each consisting of two singles and one doubles match. The winners of each group will advance to the Billie Jean King Cup Finals in Shenzhen, China, in November. Kazakhstan will be led by top-10 player Elena Rybakina and three-time major quarterfinalist Yulia Putintseva, while Colombia will feature former world No.33 Camila Osorio.

The matches will be played on hard courts at Pat Rafter Arena. The first match will see Australia play Kazakhstan on Thursday, 10 April, at 12:00 p.m AEST. Colombia versus Kazakhstan will follow on Friday, 11 April, at 12:00 p.m. AEST, and Australia versus Colombia will follow on Saturday, 12 April, at 12:00 p.m. AEST.



Community and Ticket Information

The event aims to be accessible to the community, with kids entering free across all three days and adult tickets starting from $20. Two-day ticket packages for the Australian sessions are available from $30. Tickets are available for purchase through Ticketmaster. The event is expected to draw a large crowd, with local support for the Australian team.

Published Date 18-March-2025

Ace Your Game with Team Brisbane Tennis in Tennyson

Looking for a fresh and exciting way to stay active while meeting new people? Team Brisbane Tennis (TBT) offers a fun and inclusive space where LGBTQIA+ players and allies can enjoy the sport in a supportive environment. 


Read: Ash Barty Comparisons Abound as Emerson Jones Rises from Tennyson Courts


Based at the Queensland Tennis Centre (QTC) in Tennyson, this welcoming club is perfect for those eager to hit the courts and connect with a vibrant community.

A Community-Focused Tennis Club

Photo credit: Team Brisbane Tennis/Facebook

TBT is more than just a tennis club—it’s a place where players of all skill levels can come together and feel at home. Whether you’re picking up a racquet for the first time or have years of experience, the club offers a relaxed, friendly setting where everyone is encouraged to participate.

As a club committed to inclusivity, TBT provides both social and competitive playing opportunities, ensuring that members can get involved in a way that suits them. And with QTC as its main venue, players have access to some of Brisbane’s best courts right in the heart of Tennyson.

Regular Play and Local Sessions

Photo credit: Team Brisbane Tennis/Facebook

TBT hosts regular tennis sessions at QTC, giving Tennyson and nearby residents a chance to connect with like-minded players. The club also runs additional sessions at Griffith Tennis Centre in Mount Gravatt on Monday and Wednesday nights, as well as special play opportunities during major tournaments at Morningside Tennis Centre.

A Major Tournament on Your Doorstep

Photo credit: Team Brisbane Tennis/Facebook

One of TBT’s biggest events is The Brisbane Open, an international LGBTQIA+ tennis tournament held at QTC. From 25–27 July 2025, nearly 200 players from around the world will gather in Tennyson for this prestigious event, showcasing skill, sportsmanship, and a sense of community.


Read: Tennis Star Max Purcell Faces Suspension Over IV Breach, Misses Out on Brisbane International


For Tennyson locals, it’s a fantastic opportunity to watch high-level matches, meet players from across the globe, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of an inclusive sporting event right in their neighbourhood.

If you’re looking for a great way to play, meet new people, and enjoy top-tier facilities in Tennyson, Team Brisbane Tennis is the perfect choice. Grab your racquet and join the action today! For session times, skill levels, and fees, visit TBT’s website.

Published 19-February-2025

Tennis Star Max Purcell Faces Suspension Over IV Breach, Misses Out on Brisbane International

Rising Australian tennis star Max Purcell has voluntarily accepted a provisional suspension after revealing he unknowingly received a vitamin infusion above the permitted limit—ruling him out of the Australian Open in Tennyson.


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The two-time doubles grand slam champion, who clinched the 2024 US Open title with Jordan Thompson, approached the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) after discovering medical records showing an IV infusion exceeded the 100ml limit set by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

“This news was devastating to me because I pride myself on being an athlete who always makes sure that everything is WADA safe,” Purcell wrote in an Instagram statement, explaining he had specifically instructed the medical clinic about his professional athlete status and the requirement to stay below the limit.

Max Purcell misses out on the Brisbane International

Effective 12 December, the provisional suspension excludes Purcell from competing in major tournaments like the Brisbane International and the Australian Open. The 26-year-old, who reached a career-high singles ranking of No.40 and has accumulated more than $7.35m in prize money, faces a potential two-year ban.

Brisbane International tournament director Cam Pearson expressed surprise at the development, stating on Tuesday, “I’ve only seen the reports. I understand Max has entered a voluntary suspension period. It’s under investigation so it’s inappropriate to comment any more.”

Tennis Australia acknowledged the situation in a statement, emphasising that the breach relates to the use of a “prohibited method” rather than the presence of a prohibited substance.

Wider context of tennis doping cases

Purcell’s case emerges amid ongoing controversies involving world-class players Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek. Sinner, who tested positive for clostebol, successfully argued contamination through contact with his physiotherapist’s medication, though WADA has since appealed the “no fault” decision. Swiatek served a one-month ban after traces of trimetazidine (TMZ) were found in her system, attributed to contaminated melatonin medication.

The varying treatments of these cases have prompted discussion within the tennis community about consistency in anti-doping enforcement. While Purcell’s voluntary disclosure may work in his favour, the final decision on his suspension length remains with the ITIA.


Read: Graceville Riverside Parkland Secures $1.4-Million Upgrade


During his provisional suspension, Purcell is barred from playing, coaching, or attending any tennis events sanctioned by ITIA members, including major governing bodies and grand slam organisations.

Published 24-December-2024

Brisbane International 2025: Djokovic and World No.1 Sabalenka Lead Lineup at Queensland Tennis Centre

Tennyson is preparing for an unprecedented tennis spectacle as the Brisbane International 2025 approaches, bringing with it one of the strongest player fields in the tournament’s history. From 29 December to 5 January, the Queensland Tennis Centre will transform into a battleground for tennis elite, headlined by 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic.


Read: Why the Australia Day Ban Sparked Backlash: Spotlight on Inala Hotel


Djokovic leads all-star lineup at the Queensland Tennis Centre

For local tennis enthusiasts, Djokovic’s return to Brisbane carries special significance. The Serbian superstar, who last graced Pat Rafter Arena during the tournament’s inaugural year in 2009, enters the competition on the brink of an extraordinary milestone—his potential 100th career title.

The tournament line-up reads like a who’s who of tennis excellence. In the men’s ATP 250 event, Djokovic leads a field featuring defending champion Grigor Dimitrov, rising star Holger Rune, and the charismatic Frances Tiafoe. Australian fans will also cheer for the homegrown favourites: Canberra’s Nick Kyrgios and Sydney’s Alexei Popyrin and Jordan Thompson.

The women’s WTA 500 event promises equally thrilling matchups. World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka headlines a formidable group that includes Jessica Pegula, Emma Navarro, and Daria Kasatkina. Two-time Brisbane International champion Victoria Azarenka has also added her name to the mix, while Brisbane’s Ajla Tomljanovic receives a wild card entry.

Brisbane’s vibrant tennis and lifestyle festival

Tournament director Cam Pearson shared his enthusiasm for the event’s strong player field: “This is by far the strongest field the tournament has seen, with fifteen of the top-20 men and women players confirmed.” Mayor Adrian Schrinner highlighted its significance for Brisbane, saying: “Fans can watch the world’s best tennis stars live and then relive all the action after the match with their friends and family at our vibrant lifestyle precincts.”

Tournament schedule and information

The action begins with qualifying rounds on 27–28 December, followed by the main draw from 29 December to 5 January. The provisional schedule is available on the tournament’s website, offering a detailed guide to key match times.

The official draw ceremony on 28 December will reveal the eagerly awaited matchups. Spectators can access the order of play each evening for the following day’s matches. This dynamic schedule accounts for weather, player recovery periods, and coordination between singles and doubles events, ensuring each day delivers new, exciting matchups.


Read: Oxley Creek to Undergo Major Transformation


For residents of Tennyson and surrounds, Brisbane International 2025 offers unparalleled access to world-class tennis right at their backyard. Tickets start from $30 for adults, with family passes available from $60, making it an affordable outing for local families.

Get your tickets here.

Published 05-December-2024

Brisbane International 2024 Returns to the Pat Rafter Arena

After last taking place in its entirety in 2019, the Brisbane International tennis tournament will make a much-anticipated return to welcome 2024 at the Pat Rafter Arena.



Brisbane International tournament details

To be held from December 31, 2023 to January 7, 2024, the Brisbane International will feature a 32-player draw for both men’s and women’s singles. This marks an expansion of the women’s field from previous years. Top-ranked players will compete for a total prize pool of $3.1 million AUD.

The tournament is sanctioned by the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) and the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP). It serves as a prelude to the Australian Open Grand Slam in Melbourne.

Supported by the government

“It’s terrific to see the much-anticipated return of the Brisbane International tournament to reignite Australia’s summer of tennis,” said Tourism and Sport Minister Stirling Hinchliffe. “Tennis fans love this block-buster event, as much as the players love playing at Pat Rafter Arena.”

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the tournament was a “Grand Slam win for the city” and would benefit local businesses. “Our city continues to be the number one choice for international sporting events,” he added.



Former world no.1 Ashleigh Barty endorsed the move to reinstate the event. “The players love to come here, love the atmosphere,” she said. The stadium’s namesake and fellow former world no.1 Pat Rafter also welcomed the tournament’s return.

Australian Summer of Tennis 2024
Photo Credit: Instagram/Tennis Australia

Together with the United Cup and the Canberra International, the Brisbane International kicks off the Australian Summer of Tennis in 2024. The summer culminates with the Australian Open at Melbourne Park.

Published 17 October 2023

World’s First United Cup Tournament Launches in Tennyson

A summer of international tennis is returning to Queensland with the launch of the first-ever United Cup Tournament at the Pat Rafter Arena in Tennyson.



Over 6,000 tennis fans are expected to travel to the region to watch the United Cup from Thursday, the 29th of December 2022, to Wednesday, the 4th of January 2023. 

The sports event will showcase 18 countries across three Australian cities – Brisbane (Pat Rafter Arena), Perth (RAC Arena) and Sydney (Ken Rosewall Arena). Each city will host two groups of three countries, competing in a round-robin format.

The winners of this inaugural event could take home US $15 million and earn 500 ATP and 500 WTA rankings points. 

“We know Pat Rafter Arena is a favourite with players and it will be terrific to see the stars of the game back in Brisbane for Queensland’s traditional summer of international tennis,” ourism and Sport Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said.

“Blockbuster events of the calibre of the United Cup usually bring thousands of Queensland and interstate tennis fans to Pat Rafter Arena.

“The 2022-23 international summer of tennis is Brisbane’s first since the pandemic and another green shoot of recovery for transnational sport in Queensland. 

“Queensland tennis fans will witness the mastery of the games’ big names in the hunt for the world’s biggest prize pool outside of the Grand Slams.

“The United Cup is a world-first spectacle of men’s and women’s tennis greats playing side-by-side for their countries.

“I’m excited to see the United Cup’s star-studded centre court billing join Queensland’s line-up of major international sport on our decade-long green and gold runway to the Brisbane 2032 Games.

“First-class international tennis is game, set and match for our great Queensland lifestyle, generating an estimated $8 million for the visitor economy and supporting more good jobs.” 



Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said that the United Cup is line with the city’s “action-packed line-up of major international sports on our green and gold runway to the #Brisbane2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.” 

Tickets to the United Cup Tournament are now on sale.

Tennyson Kerbside Collection: How to Promote Responsible Rummaging


Salvaging and taking items you can re-use and recycle from other people’s unwanted pile is encouraged to limit landfill buildup. However, if you’re bothered about the mess some scavengers make, below are some tips to encourage them to rummage responsibly: 

1. Label your items.

If you have an old but working toaster, electric fan, or any small but still useful appliances on your kerbside collection pile, tape a note on it. For example, a sign that says, “Not Worth Selling But Still Works” makes scavenging easier. Your neighbours won’t need to dig through your stuff — and then leave a mess! — if they can read the note right away.   

Some scavengers break items for disposal to get the parts they want. But TV sets with broken screens, for example, won’t likely be picked up by the collectors anymore as there are shards of glass around it. To discourage scavengers from breaking your old stuff, put a sign that says, “Don’t Break For Parts, Just Take The Whole TV.” 

2. Take the wires or cables out.

Scavengers like to cut the power cords off small appliances as this is apparently the fastest way to collect copper for reselling or reusing. But the wreckage they leave on your kerb can be annoying. 

Whilst you can put a sign to encourage them to take the whole item, it might help to cut or take out the wires yourself to set it neatly on your kerbside pile. This way, the scavengers won’t have to destroy anything else as they can easily take what they want and leave. 

Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council/Facebook

3. Put your items out hours before pick up. 

Kerbside collection is at 6:00 a.m. but scavengers may already be rummaging at midnight or dawn because some folks put their items earlier. Understandably, people prepare their kerbside pile at their most convenient time, which could be days ahead of collection day. 

However, this raises the chances for scavengers to make a mess on your corner. Cleaning up after their mess is a lot more inconvenient and puts you at risk for illegal dumping fines.



Given that kerbside collection happens periodically, it will take less effort to wake up before 6:00 a.m. to set your pile and wait for the collectors to pick it up. If you can watch over your items before the collection, you can actually engage the scavengers personally and tell them, in a nice way, to leave the pile neat and orderly when they are done.  

Dine With a Breathtaking View by the River at This Tennyson Hidden Gem

Experts say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but when you find this hidden gem in Tennyson, every meal is going to be pretty much significant. 

River La Vie at 197 King Arthur Terrace is an all-day brunch restaurant serving Australian fare and it has an unbeatable fantastic view of the Brisbane River.

Every spot to sit on at River La Vie is the best corner as it has an al fresco dining area surrounded by airy and beautiful greenery and flowers. It’s no surprise then for guests to linger while eating here because the place is so conducive for a wonderful dining experience.



Equally pleasant is the food’s flavour and presentation. River La Vie serves Australian fusion in its menu. The list is simple and short but the food servings are generous. Among its popular meals are the Kimchi Buchimgae (Korean Pancakes), Twice Cooked Pork Belly, gluten-free Tandoori Lamb Cutlet and Zuchini and Halloumi Fritters. 

Photo Credit: River La Vie/Facebook
Photo Credit: River La Vie/Facebook

River La Vie was formerly Alfreds Tennyson. Its new owner, who fell in love at first sight with the place, transformed the restaurant into this homely, eco-conscious establishment.

This restaurant is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. On weekends, trading hours extend to 9:00 p.m. 



 “Been twice for lunch recently. Great quiet location with a beautiful outlook. Food and service were outstanding. I will be back.”

~ Brian McMillian, Facebook

“Across from Pat Rafter Arena, this cafe is amazing. Love how it’s so close to nature. Costs about $40-$50 for meal and coffee for two. The food presentation is gorgeous and the decor is lovely too. The service was amazing, and child-friendly. Will definitely be back!”

~ Natalie Murray, Google Reviews

“Tucked away near the tennis centre in Tennyson, River la vie has a lovely outlook onto the Brisbane river. We visited for brunch, and found pleasant and quick service. My favourite dish was definitely the three-cheese Benny. Think of eggs Benedict but with hash browns instead of bread! Excellent idea! Haven’t had such a nice brekky in some time.”

~ Spice Dad, Zomato