Bailey Smith reveals Mad Monday plans with new tennis court at $4m Surf Coast home ahead of AFL Grand Final
Geelong Cats midfielder explains social purpose of high-profile upgrade as he readies for a premiership charge against Brisbane
Bailey Smith has revealed the secret behind the latest upgrade to his $4 million Surf Coast home: a tennis court. The Geelong midfielder, who is preparing for the AFL Grand Final against the Brisbane Lions, confirmed the court will be put to social use on Mad Monday rather than strictly for training. He spoke to media during the grand final parade in Melbourne on Friday.
Smith's Bellbrae property is a 5.8-hectare estate that has become a hive of activity in recent weeks, with earthmoving equipment digging into lawns as part of a major landscaping project. Posts on social media showed machinery working deep under the grass line and tagging Endlessturf, a company known for premium artificial surfaces. By the end of the work, photos showed a manicured surface with light poles installed, turning part of the block into a space that could double as a party hotspot. Smith bought the property in September 2024 for $4 million, just weeks before his move from the Western Bulldogs to Geelong. The home sits near Torquay and is described as including an orchard, heated floors, an outdoor entertainment area, huge windows and enough land to run livestock.
The 24-year-old followed a quick return from an ACL injury in 2024 by delivering a career-best season in 2025, averaging 31.4 disposals per game across 22 matches for Geelong. He joined the Cats after missing 2024 with the ACL tear and has since been central to their push for a premiership.
"It's exciting, I am super grateful but I am ready for 2.30pm tomorrow," he said ahead of the grand final build-up. "This stuff I'll take it all in but I won't do too much reflecting until hopefully we're holding a premiership cup and I've got a medal around my neck."
Away from football, his private life has drawn attention in recent months. His romance with influencer Tammy Hembrow first made headlines when the pair were spotted together on the Gold Coast, and reports have emerged that their romance has cooled and that she may no longer be part of his big football moments.
The AFL Grand Final is set for Saturday, with Geelong aiming to cap a remarkable comeback against Brisbane, following the team's grand final parade through Melbourne on Friday.