An Open Letter to Newcastle Basketball Members and Stakeholders

Dear Members and Stakeholders,

As I begin my journey as CEO of Newcastle Basketball, I wanted to take a moment to introduce myself and share some important updates that I believe are vital for our future.

Since moving to Newcastle in the late ’90s, Newcastle Basketball has been much more than just a place to play the sport I’ve loved since childhood. It’s where I’ve built lifelong friendships, made lasting memories, and found a deep sense of belonging in what I believe is Australia’s greatest region. After 20 years in leadership roles across Sport, Education, Retail, and Government, I feel incredibly honoured to now lead an association that has been such a big part of my life.

While I’m excited about the opportunities ahead, I’m also keenly aware of the significant challenges we face. Our current playing facility in Broadmeadow is nearing the end of its useful life, with our lease expiring in just four years (2028). Securing a new facility is critical—not only for basketball but for the many community organisations that rely on indoor spaces for sports and wellbeing activities.

Since 2018, Newcastle Basketball’s Board and staff have been working closely with multiple levels of government to secure new facilities. As we enter a critical stage in this journey, your support is more important than ever. This new facility isn’t just about improving our playing conditions; it’s about ensuring the future of community sport in our region for generations to come.

If you would like to learn more or offer your support, I encourage you to explore the links below. You’ll find FAQs on our website, access to the State Significant Development Application (SSDA) portal where you can review our plans, and an online petition to show your support for the development. Every bit of backing from our community helps strengthen our case and make this vision a reality.

• • • Further Information
    • SSDA Portal
    • Online Petition

As our application moves forward, the Board and I will continue to collaborate with all stakeholders and levels of government to reach the best possible outcome for our members and the wider community. We’ll also keep you informed on how things are progressing, and I hope you’ll stay engaged and involved in this exciting chapter for Newcastle Basketball.

While the new facility is one of our top priorities, we’re also proposing to change our constitution to better reflect our needs. If you would like to hear more about the changes and the process you will need to undertake if you would like to vote on them, come along to the following information sessions on the new constitution which are planned to be held on the following days:

• • • Wednesday 23^rd October at 6pm, Newcastle Basketball Stadium.
    • Thursday 24^th October at 6pm, Newcastle Basketball Stadium.

Outside of these sessions, we would still welcome your thoughts — whether you think we’re excelling or there’s room for improvement. Feel free to stop me for a chat if you see me around or reach out via email at ian.mckensey@newcastlebasketball.com.au. I look forward to hearing from you.

Thank you for your continued support. I’m sure that together we’ll make this next chapter in Newcastle Basketball’s history one we can all be proud of.

Go Falcons!

Best regards,
Ian McKensey
CEO, Newcastle Basketball