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today19 October 2024
In a heartfelt open letter to members and stakeholders, newly appointed Newcastle Basketball CEO, Ian McKensey, has called for community support in securing a new indoor sports facility—a move he deems critical for the future of local sports. However, the proposal has ignited debate among residents concerned about its potential impact on cherished community spaces.
Having lived in Newcastle since the late 1990s, McKensey brings over 20 years of leadership experience across sport, education, retail, and government sectors. His personal connection to Newcastle Basketball runs deep, having formed lifelong friendships and a strong sense of belonging through the association.
“Our current facility in Broadmeadow is nearing the end of its useful life, with our lease expiring in just four years,” McKensey stated. “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.”
The proposed $91 million Hunter Indoor Sports Centre aims to deliver 12 indoor courts, including a show court seating 2,000 spectators, to accommodate sports such as basketball, netball, badminton, and pickleball. The development is intended to replace the ageing Broadmeadow facility, which struggles to meet the growing demand for indoor sports in Newcastle.
Since 2018, Newcastle Basketball’s board and staff have been collaborating with multiple levels of government to secure new facilities. As these efforts reach a pivotal stage, McKensey emphasises the necessity of community backing. He encourages members and stakeholders to engage by:
“Outside of these sessions, we still welcome your thoughts—whether you think we’re excelling or there’s room for improvement,” he added. McKensey remains approachable for discussions and encourages community members to reach out via email at ian.mckensey@newcastlebasketball.com.au.
Community Concerns and Controversy
Despite the ambitious vision, the project’s proposed location on Wallarah and Blackley Ovals in New Lambton has sparked significant controversy. The ovals, situated on Crown land, are utilised by local sports clubs and Lambton High School, and many residents view the development as an infringement on valuable green space.
Local sports teams, including the Lambton Jaffas Juniors and the Newcastle District Cricket Association, face potential displacement, as the proposed stadium would occupy much of the existing fields. The community group Save Our Lambton Ovals, with over 500 members, has voiced strong opposition, citing concerns over the loss of recreational areas, increased traffic congestion, parking shortages, and potential flooding risks due to the site’s location in a known flood zone.
Parents of Lambton High School students have also expressed apprehension. A survey conducted by the school’s Parents & Citizens Group revealed that 83% of respondents oppose the development, worried about the reduced space for physical education and the impact on student safety during emergencies.
Newly elected Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge, who campaigned against the stadium’s location, has aligned himself with community concerns. “A basketball stadium is a great idea,” Kerridge stated at a recent rally. “But not at the cost of displacing local sports clubs and students. We need to listen to the community and find a location that works for everyone.”
Wallsend MP Sonia Hornery has questioned why alternative sites, such as the former Shortland tip, were dismissed, urging further exploration of other options. The City of Newcastle has indicated that the Shortland site is unsuitable due to land instability and ongoing remediation efforts.
In response, Newcastle Basketball maintains that the New Lambton site is the only suitable publicly owned location available, especially given the impending redevelopment of the Broadmeadow area for high-density housing. The association insists that comprehensive planning has been undertaken to address environmental and infrastructural concerns, as detailed in the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) now open for public feedback.
As the dialogue continues, McKensey remains optimistic. “Together we’ll make this next chapter in Newcastle Basketball’s history one we can all be proud of,” he concluded.
About Newcastle Basketball
Newcastle Basketball is a cornerstone of the local sporting community, providing opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels to engage in basketball. The association is committed to fostering a love for the game while promoting community engagement and wellbeing.
Contact Information
For further details or to offer support, visit the Newcastle Basketball website or contact Ian McKensey directly at ian.mckensey@newcastlebasketball.com.au.
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Community Divided Over Proposed Basketball Stadium on New Lambton Ovals
Written by: Newy Staff
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