Close to folding, the club is up and running for the 2012 season after donations helped clear its $55,000 debt.

New chairman Mark Thurlow said the board's formation was integral to the stabilisation of the club.

''It took a little bit longer than what we thought it would, but we're up and running now,'' he said.

The first meeting was held last week and Mr Thurlow said the board had the business expertise to steady the club.

Mr Thurlow said sponsorship would determine the success of the club off-court in clearing the debt and future spending.

He said the club still owed $28,000 to SEABL, which they would pay off during the next two years.

Mr Thurlow estimated the cost each season of getting the girls on the court to be $120,000 to $130,000.

He said budget constraints meant there would be a limit on imports in the team.

''This year you will certainly see local girls with a lot more court time,'' he said.

Community support for the revival of the club was required, Mr Thurlow said.

''We've formed what we believe is a rich, strong board but we need sponsorship, we need money to get this thing up and running.

''We're really, really pleading for help from the community. If you've sponsored the Tornadoes and you wish to sponsor again please contact us.

''We want to see the Tornadoes sustainable for another 10 to 15 years . . . to ensure it goes on forever.''

Mr Thurlow said they expected to announce a coach within the fortnight.