A Summer of Tennis

Promising ‘more fun for fans in 2017’, the Australian Open boasts a bunch of new entertainment offerings to delight the whole family. In today’s C&G blog we’ve listed some of the best events during the competition (January 16-29), along with our ideas for getting into the tennis spirit Bayside! Read on.

AO Ball Park for Kids 

Described as a mini theme-park, the AO Ball Park is the ultimate entertainment portal for kids. With a LEGO Play Zone, NERF BattleZone HQ, Bob the Builder dance zone and Medibank Play Park, there’ll also be a range of meal specials designed especially for families. Don’t miss the ANZ Autograph Island in the first eight days of the tournament – it’s a great chance for kids to meet the players and amp up the excitement.

Canadian Club Racquet Club 

Over-eighteens will love kicking back with a Canadian Club mixer at the Canadian Club Racquet Club, a pop-up bar and social hub with Yarra River views. Back by popular demand, live DJs will guarantee plenty of tunes to keep the vibes high. 

Food for champions 

The free section of the AO Festival is located on the Lower and Upper Terraces at Birrarung Marr, and promises some fantastic food trucks and stalls! Choose from a diverse range of cuisines, including Hotel Jesus (contemporary Mexican from the talented folks at Mamasita), Jimmy Grants (thank you, George Calombaris), Tokyo Tina and, of course, Huxtaburger. 

AO Open Sessions

Hailed as one of Australia’s biggest parties this summer, AO Open Sessions features a huge line-up of local and international acts including The Temper Trap, Peking Duck, Birds of Tokyo and Daryl Braithwaite. Located in the middle terrace of the AO Festival at Birrarung Marr, music begins at midday each day! View the full line-up here.  

The ‘crème de la crème’ of international tennis talent 

Roger Federer, Serena Williams, Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray and Angelique Kerber are just a few of the champions who have trained long and hard for the glory at the Australian open. Watch them share discuss their dreams ambitions for the Open here.  

AO at Home 

Can’t get to the competition? Recreate the action at home with an Australian Open themed party! Once you have your big screen and speakers set up, invite guests to dress for the tennis. Get creative incorporating tennis themes into your hospitality – Canadian Club mini-bar, anyone?

For more information about getting involved with local tennis, be sure to check out the Bayside Regional Tennis Association – it’s never too late to foster a passion for the world’s favourite racquet sport, and tennis can be a super fun way to keep fit.

Let your summer of tennis begin!