What’s happening?
Townsville City Council is throwing its full support behind the Townsville Fire after their win over the Southside Flyers secured a place in the 2026 WNBL Grand Final Series.
The victory on Sunday night has the Fire within reach of a fifth WNBL championship.
To back the club’s #PaintTheTownOrange campaign, Council is lighting up key city assets in team colours. Council’s social media logo has turned orange and a giant Townsville Fire flag will fly at the University Drive roundabout during the finals period, kicking off on Thursday.
The Fire flag will be hoisted on Wednesday, with assets including Castle Hill lit up for game day on Thursday.
Why it matters
The Grand Final berth is more than a sporting milestone. It is a moment of civic pride.
Mayor Nick Dametto joined thousands of supporters at the team’s most recent home game and said the city was buzzing ahead of the series.
“Council is right behind the Townsville Fire, and I can’t wait to see the community pack out ‘The Fire Pit’ for the Grand Final,” Cr Dametto said.
“These women are phenomenal athletes and outstanding ambassadors for our city. They continue to inspire people across the region with their dedication, professionalism and team spirit.
“We’re putting our full support behind the Fire so they know Townsville is behind them every step of the way.”
Council remains a long-time partner and sponsor of the club.
Local Impact
The support is being seen across Townsville in real time.
Deputy Mayor and Division Six councillor Suzy Batkovic, a WNBL legend and three-time Fire championship winner, urged locals to show up in big numbers.
“Nothing compares to playing in front of a loud, passionate Townsville crowd, and I know the team thrives off that energy,” Cr Batkovic said.
“Hosting the first of the Grand Finals series here in Townsville will be a real coup for our girls and Townsville, so I encourage our entire city to get behind them.
“It’s fantastic to see Council rally behind the Fire and unite the city during such an exciting time.
“To raise the Fire flag at the University Drive roundabout is always a goosebumps moment, knowing our girls are one step closer to bringing a championship home.
“If you haven’t already, now is the time to jump onboard and paint the town orange in support.”
By the Numbers
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Fifth title in sight, the Fire are one series away from another WNBL championship.
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Three championships won by Suzy Batkovic with the Fire, now serving as Deputy Mayor and Division Six councillor.
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Two major city sites confirmed for finals lighting, including Castle Hill and the University Drive roundabout.
Zoom In
The Fire’s Grand Final appearance has sparked visible city-wide backing.
Council’s branding has shifted to orange and prominent landmarks will glow in team colours for game day.
The move signals strong alignment between the club and the city’s leadership.
Zoom Out
Townsville has long backed its elite sporting teams.
With Council stepping in publicly, the Grand Final run has become a whole-of-city moment, not just a club campaign.
The #PaintTheTownOrange push now extends beyond the court and into streets, skylines and social feeds.
What to look for next?
Game day lighting will begin Thursday, with the Fire flag raised on Wednesday.
Attention now turns to the opening Grand Final clash in Townsville, where a packed Fire Pit is expected.
