Pickleball is the ultimate love child of racquet sports. You use a rubber paddle similar to table tennis, play on a badminton court, over a tennis net and get in the feel good cardio of squash. The variety is unmatched. Played indoor or out, with two or four players, you might’ve even convinced yourself you’re playing tennis. Right now, pickleball is taking over the conversation, so we decided to see what makes it such a hit.
With origins in the US all the way back to the sixties, pickleball is the new it-sport in Australia. During the pandemic, it became the fastest-growing sport in the USA and the trend has quickly spread to Australia due to its accessibility, health benefits and the fact that it's addictively fun. It’s an inclusive game that is enjoyed by all age levels, regardless of skill level, which means that it’s popping up everywhere, including Brisbane/Meanjin.
Local clubs and casual tournaments abound, with classes available for those zealous picklers out there who wish to take things to the next level. The pickleball community is alive and thriving in Brisbane, with sessions happening practically every day across the city.
With all this buzz, we went on a mission to not only find the best courts to get your game on but also the most fabulous crews to play with it. Whether you’re an amateur who has yet to serve a ball, or you’re a pickleball superstar looking to take your skills to the next level, here is Urban List’s ultimate guide to pickleball in Brisbane.
Pickleball Clubs In Brisbane
Looking to join a community of like-minded pickleballers? Here’s some of Brisbane’s favourite clubs that host weekly sessions across Brisbane for all skill set levels.
Brisbane Pickleball Club
If you’ve never picked up a paddle before and have no idea what you’re doing when it comes to pickleball, Brisbane Pickleball Club is the place to get you started. The crew here are super friendly and host ‘Come and Try’ sessions all over Brisbane from UQ’s Sport Tennis Centre to Rocklea and Albion and at various times every week. By the end of the beginner sessions they’ll have you up and playing sessions like the pros. Find out more here.
Pickle Kit
Northsiders are known for a lot of things but did you know their pickleball community is one of the strongest in Queensland? Spread across two unique venues in Mitchelton and Arana Hills, Pickle Kit hosts social and competitive pickleball sessions on select nights as well as weekly coaching. All skillsets are welcome, while paddles available for hire and wheelchair accessible venues make it easier than ever to take part in the great game.
Pickle Hub
The epicentre of Brisbane pickleball, the gang over at Pickle Hub aren’t just all about playing pickleball, they’re also a vibrant community here for a good time. Whether you’re looking for a friendly match or some competitive action the hub hosts sessions across Brisbane’s southside every day of the week to get you into fighting form. Paddles provided, join a skill focused training session to take your pickleball play to the next level, with sessions located in Jindalee, Kedron, Kenmore, Nathan and Yeronga.
Pickleball Courts In Brisbane
So you’ve surpassed the need for training or a club membership and are ready to take to the court on your own? Here where to find pickleball courts Brisbane wide.
The Gap Tennis Club
200 Settlement Road, The Gap
Located in The Gap Health and Racquet Club precinct and set amongst landscaped gardens in Brisbane’s north west, The Gap’s exclusive Tennis Club is home to two purpose built pickleball courts as well as four multi-purpose courts lined for pickleball. Next level deluxe, the courts are even lined with LED lighting to keep you playing after it gets dark.
Outdoor Public Pickleball Courts
Various Locations
Venture into suburbia for some free pickleball outdoors in the sunshine. The Brisbane City Council has been adding public pickleball courts to a host of leafy parks around town, with more to come. So far you’ll find them at Joachim Street Park in Holland Park West, Amazons Place Park in Sinnamon Park. Sheriff Park, Wakerley and Greenways Esplanade Park, Parkinson, with more to come. There’s also a heap of multi-use courts around town that can be used for pickleball, so all that’s left to do is get yourself a net, a ball and some paddles.
Albion Indoor Sports Centre
43 Burdett Street, Albion
No need to worry about the weather at Albion Indoor Sports Centre, which provides excellent indoor facilities for pickleball lovers. The centre’s two indoor courts are dedicated with permanent lines and net with friendly staff to ensure a fantastic playing experience every time. All that’s required to play is a one time fee so there is nothing stopping you from returning time and time again.
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Image credit: Brisbane City Council | Facebook