With the 2026/27 WNBL season officially tipping off this week, Townsville City Council is backing local legends and five-time WNBL champions, the Townsville Fire as a principal partners for the next three years.
The Townsville Fire is northern Australia’s most successful professional sporting team, with its fifth WNBL title, brought home last season, sparking overwhelming community support as Townsville united behind its hometown champions.
Mayor Nick Dametto said Council was proud to get behind the Townsville Fire yet again as Australia’s only community-owned, not-for-profit professional women’s basketball organisation in the Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL).
“We’re incredibly proud to be the home of the Townsville Fire, not just for their fierce determination on the court, but for the way they conduct themselves in and around our community,” Cr Dametto said.
“The Fire do so much more than win games. Through their junior programs, school visits and community outreach, they’re inspiring the next generation of athletes right across our city and region.
“What they’ve achieved hasn’t happened by accident. It’s been built on hard work, strong leadership and a community that gets right behind its team. That’s exactly why this is money well spent.
“We saw that community pride on full display during the championship parade earlier this year. The Townsville Fire means a lot to Townsville, and Council is proud to continue backing a club that gives so much back to our community.”
Townsville Fire General Manager Sam Pascoe thanked Council for its ongoing support, and said the partnership plays a vital role in the club’s continued success both on and off the court.
“Council’s support is critical to the long-term sustainability of our club, and we’re incredibly grateful to have the backing of our local community through Council,” she said.
“The Fire has continued to grow from strength to strength in recent years, and that support has helped us remain competitive in one of the toughest women’s basketball leagues in the world.
“Following our fifth WNBL championship, we’ve worked hard to retain a strong core group of players and build a roster capable of challenging for further success this season.
“What makes this club truly special is its connection to the community. We’re proud to represent Townsville and to inspire the next generation of basketballers across North Queensland through the work we do both on and off the court.”
Council’s multi-year funding agreement is valued at almost $1.4 million and includes around $250,000 cash (excl. GST) per annum and in-kind support of $645,000 over the length of the contract (excl. GST).
The agreement includes venue support through the Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre and Townsville Stadium, together with marketing and promotional opportunities that help the club connect with fans across the region.
The Townsville Fire’s title defence gets underway in a championship re-match against the Perth Lynx on the road on 17 October 2026.
Fans are encouraged to secure their season tickets and become a part of the Fire family by visiting their website.
