We are not Hugh’s parents, but we can’t help but be incredibly proud of Hugh and his dedication to supporting local community members in need. On the 24 March, Hugh ran his second Racquets Against Breast Cancer tournament at the Wahgunyah Tennis Club. And at only 11 years of age, Hugh, together with the support of his family, raised more than $3,500 for the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Trust Fund.

When we spoke to Hugh, his brother Will and parents Sean and Katie they were still buzzing from the excitement of the day. Numbers of players exceeded their expectations with Hugh explaining “We had four courts running, two of them are not even meant to be tennis courts!”

With more than 70 people in attendance, 40 of which were players, Hugh reports that the day was filled with much fun as well as the more serious business of competing for the coveted trophies. Whilst Hugh won the C Grade event, the stand out for the day was the raffle, “We had so many amazing prizes and so many people won”.

Hugh in recognition of the significant impact breast cancer can have on a family, is determined hold his Racquets Against Breast Cancer tournament every year. Hugh explains “I did this because my mum’s mum died of breast cancer and I didn’t want anyone else to have to go through so much pain. So I decided to raise as much money as I could”.

The day was filled with not only the tennis tournament, but also a cake stall, a raffle, face painting and a sausage sizzle. And we have it on good authority that next year’s tournament will include the sale of the coveted Racquets Against Breast Cancer t-shirts!

Hugh’s father Sean, told us that “Hugh has a heart of gold” and spoke of other activities Hugh has undertaken to support those in need. Including a successful grant application for his school to purchase and plant fruit trees, thus ensuring that kids always had access to healthy food.

Hugh has been recognised as a finalist in the Tennis Victoria Community awards for his volunteer work in creating his tennis tournament, and we wish him every success.

Thank you Hugh for your dedication to supporting the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Trust Fund. Your hard work will help us to purchase new equipment, conduct vital research, provide staff education opportunities, and ensure the Wellness Centre continues to offer important support services.

Photo: The Racquets Against Breast Cancer event was held on March 24, with Will Bergin, 10, supporting his brother Hugh Bergin, 11, who thought of the idea. Picture by James Wiltshire.

If you would like to donate, Click here.