Fraser Coast scores big with new basketball stadium
Published on 14 May 2026
Basketball is bouncing into a new era on the Fraser Coast, with Hervey Bay’s brand-new Bendigo Bank Stadium now open and hosting its first games.
The purpose-built venue is the first of its kind in the region, and it’s been delivered through a partnership between Fraser Coast Regional Council and the Hervey Bay Basketball Association, creating a modern home for the sport and a space the whole community can enjoy.
Mayor George Seymour said the new stadium at the Fraser Coast Sports and Recreation Precinct would provide a dedicated home for basketball while also catering to other indoor sports, school competitions and community events.
“The new facility includes two NBA-standard indoor courts, an integrated gym, all-ability change facilities, tiered seating, club rooms and a mezzanine level,” he said.
“It also features a modern audio-visual system, large display screens and upgraded ventilation to enhance the experience for players and spectators alike.
“The audio-visual system delivers unprecedented advancements, allowing fans to experience every game with crystal clear clarity, whether cheering from the stands or streaming live from anywhere in the world.”
Sport and Recreation spokesperson Cr John Weiland said basketball is one of the fastest-growing sports in Australia, with over 600 players currently registered locally.
“With training programmes increasing in the lead up to the 2032 Olympics, this facility will help create better pathways for aspiring players,” he said.
“Council has backed the project with a 20-year lease agreement with the Basketball Association and a $3.5 million contribution.
“This investment secures a dedicated home for basketball at the precinct for decades to come.
“The Basketball Association also secured $1 million in additional funding from Bendigo Bank, Hervey Bay RSL, Engineers Plus and a range of local businesses to help bring the project to life.”
Hervey Bay Basketball Association President Jill Stephenson said the opening of Bendigo Bank Stadium was an exciting milestone for members and the wider region.
“The official club games will begin this week, with the first major event planned for July, followed by the Wheelaroos NRL Wheelchair Rugby League in August,” she said.
“We want to continue to grow basketball as a sport in our region, so planning is already underway for a further two courts, with private funding sources being investigated.
“This project would not have been possible without the support of our local community and Fraser Coast Regional Council, and we are incredibly grateful.”
Cr Seymour said this new facility is now the largest indoor multipurpose sports facility on the Fraser Coast and is a huge asset to the community.
“The community will also be able to hire the courts when the basketball association is not using them for practice and games by emailing facilities@herveybaybasketball.com.
“The new multipurpose facility was a key element in the Fraser Coast Sport and Recreation Precinct Master Plan, and it’s part of Council’s broader commitment to fostering a healthy, active and vibrant community.”