Obituary: Andrea Mitchell

The ITF is saddened to learn of the passing of former Hopman Cup board member Andrea Mitchell, who died on 3 April aged 64.

Mitchell, who garnered a reputation for her strong work ethic and passion for tennis, was a prominent figure in Western Australian tennis circles, serving on numerous committees before becoming the first female President in Tennis West’s history in 1996.

She went on to serve a 12-year term in the role, as well as serving on the Tennis Australia Board from 1997 - 2007, and, in 2000, was awarded the Australian Sports Medal for her contribution to the sport.

Outside of Tennis, Mitchell worked as a physical education teacher before taking up a position in the Department of Sport and Recreation. In 2008, she successfully ran for the Liberal Party in the seat of Kingsley, a position she held until 2017. At the 2013 election she was made a Parliamentary Secretary, and was elevated to Minister for Child Protection and Mental Health from 2016-2017.

In her 2008 inaugural speech, she championed community service and voiced her strong belief that community engagement is critical for the success of society. Her words continue to ring true.

David Haggerty, ITF president said: “Andrea was exceptionally astute, a force for good and a tireless advocate for tennis and women. She made a vast contribution in her different roles. It was a pleasure and an honour to work with her on so many occasions through the years, most recently as a Hopman Cup Board member. Highly regarded by the tennis world at home and overseas, she will be sorely missed.”