What’s happening?
It has been announced that Townsville will host the inaugural Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL) Townsville Tip-Off ’25. The stand-alone preseason tournament will run from 25 to 28 September at Townsville Stadium and will feature all eight WNBL teams. Across three days, fans will see eight games and enjoy free community activities.
Why it matters
The event delivers on the Crisafulli Government’s Destination 2045 plan to boost tourism through sport, concerts, and cultural events. It also continues Queensland’s push to secure major events in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Local impact
More than 200 players, coaches, staff, and officials are expected to travel to Townsville, with up to 6,000 fans attending. Local tourism, hospitality, and businesses are set to benefit from visitors enjoying both the matches and community activities.
By the numbers
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8 WNBL teams competing in the league’s first stand-alone preseason tournament.
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200+ players, coaches, staff and officials expected in Townsville for the event.
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6,000 fans projected to attend matches and activities from 25 to 28 September.
Zoom in
Minister for Sport and Racing Tim Mander said the tournament was a coup for Queensland. “The Crisafulli Government is continuing to cement Queensland’s place as a key sporting destination, securing another major event in the lead up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games,” he said.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell highlighted the visitor appeal. “We know sports fans will travel far and wide for their teams, and to see the best action,” he said.
Member for Townsville Adam Baillie said the tournament would be a win for the city. “With players, staff and fans coming into town, we’ll see a real boost for local tourism, hospitality and businesses,” he said.
WNBL CEO Jennie Sager said the event was an opportunity for fans. “Townsville has an incredibly passionate community of basketball fans and with the Townsville Fire celebrating their 25th year, there is no better place to showcase women’s basketball,” she said.
Townsville Acting Mayor Ann-Maree Greaney said the community was ready. “We have a fantastic basketball community here in Townsville. From grassroots juniors to our four-time WNBL champions, the Townsville Fire, so I know the WNBL Tip-Off will be welcomed with open arms,” she said.
Townsville Enterprise Director Visitor Economy and Marketing Lisa Woolfe said the tournament reinforced Townsville’s reputation. “Securing the inaugural WNBL Tip-Off is a major win for Townsville and another proud moment for a region that has become synonymous with elite sporting events in Northern Australia,” she said.
Zoom out
The WNBL Tip-Off is part of the Crisafulli Government’s Destination 2045 plan, which includes a dedicated events fund to support Queensland’s vision to be Australia’s home of events. The tournament is supported by the Department of Sport, Racing and Olympic and Paralympics Games, Tourism and Events Queensland, and Townsville City Council through Townsville Enterprise.
What to look for next
The WNBL Tip-Off will take place from 25 to 28 September 2025 at Townsville Stadium, marking the league’s first-ever stand-alone preseason tournament and giving basketball fans the chance to see all eight teams in action.
