The morning was considered a resounding success by organisers and started with a free barbecue breakfast at 7.30am before interested players took to the courts to take advantage of the free access, as well as the use of a ball machine and a hit-the-target competition.

The highlight of the day was a feature match between local tennis veteran Alvin Hava and Mount Isa mayor Tony McGrady, who was at the courts early getting in some practice with the help of Shawn Major.

Copper City Tennis Club secretary Nicole Hall said the morning was successful because it achieved what the club had wanted it to.

“It’s gone really good. We have had a really great turnout,” she said.

“We have seen a lot of new faces, which is really great to see and we’re hoping some of these players might be interested in joining up next year.

“We’ve had juniors and seniors. We’ve actually had a lot more adults turn up than we were expecting.”

Prior to the exhibition match, Ms Hall was confident Councillor McGrady would hold his own on the court.

“I think he will do all right. He seems to be in good form this morning having a few practice hits, which is good to see,” she said.