WNBL match and clinics coming to Ballarat

Elite women’s basketball is heading to Ballarat, with the Bendigo Spirit confirming two WNBL games will be played in the city as part of a major statewide tour.

Under a landmark agreement with the Victorian Government’s Significant Sporting Events Program, the Spirit will deliver matches and community programs across regional Victoria throughout the 2025–26 and 2026–27 seasons.

Ballarat will host two regular-season WNBL games:

• Bendigo Spirit v Geelong Venom – Friday 5 December
• Bendigo Spirit v Southside Flyers – Friday 9 January

“This partnership is a game-changer for women’s sport and regional communities,” said Sports Entertainment Network CEO Craig Hutchison.

“We’re proud to bring elite basketball to new audiences, tell the stories of our incredible athletes, and inspire the next generation of players and fans across the state.”

The initiative has already seen pre-season games held in Warrnambool and Shepparton, alongside local clinics and school visits by Spirit players.

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said the program would deliver a big boost to communities like Ballarat.

“Thanks to the Significant Sporting Events Program, people all over regional Victoria will have the chance to enjoy elite basketball,” he said.

“Showcasing women’s basketball in great towns like Ballarat supports the future of women’s sport, while also backing local tourism, jobs and businesses.”

In addition to match nights, the Spirit will deliver open training sessions, coaching clinics, school visits, junior development programs and networking events in Ballarat.

All games will be broadcast nationally via 9Now, ESPN and Disney+, with extra content created by SEN’s Rainmaker production team.

For tickets and information about the tour, visit bendigospirit.com.au