City extends deal to 2031

The City of Mount Gambier has extended its partnership with the Pioneers Basketball Club, renewing its commitment until the end of the 2030 season.

The continued partnership and term of the commitment was unanimously supported at the City of Mount Gambier’s January meeting and will continue to support the Pioneers showcasing both women’s and men’s teams competing within a national competition.

City of Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin said council recognised the Pioneers Basketball Club was the only regional South Australian team to compete in a national basketball competition.

“The club provides significant economic benefit to the City of Mount Gambier and the team is an inspiration to our aspiring young basketball players” Mayor Martin said.

The six-year partnership provides both cash and in-kind support, allowing the Pioneers to continue to deliver and grow their home games at the City of Mount Gambier’s state-of-the-art Wulanda Recreation and Convention Centre.

Additionally, this partnership will bolster the club’s efforts to continue to activate Wulanda, as the home venue for the Pioneers and other basketball and sport and recreation related events.

“Council is proud to support the club through the 2024/2025 Grants and Sponsorship program to the value of $50,000 and also provide up to $75,000 in kind support and further support where required to assist with the facilitation of home games at Wulanda Recreation and Convention Centre,” Mayor Martin said.

“It is wonderful to see the Pioneers play at Wulanda, showcasing their talent at our city’s state-of-the-art, sport and recreation facility.”

Over the past two years, the Pioneers Basketball Club delivered consecutive NBL pre-season games hosting the Adelaide 36ers, as well as South East Melbourne Phoenix and the Brisbane Bullets.

Pioneers Basketball Club president Tom Kosch said the club was extremely grateful to the City of Mount Gambier for their ongoing support.

“The City of Mount Gambier’s continued support is invaluable to our basketball club,” Kosch said.

“This long-term commitment allows us to focus on our performance and sustainability within NBL1 South and allows us to further enhance the game night experience for our fans and community.”

The NBL1 South season tips off on March 28 with the Pioneers hosting their first home game at Wulanda on Friday, April 4.