Australian Government-funded tiered seating at Torquay's Wurdi Baierr Stadium filled with spectators for the first time on Saturday, for the opening games of the Surf Coast Chargers' 2026 basketball season.
The retractable stand provides more than 550 seats, creating a showcourt environment and boosting the stadium's atmosphere for representative and exhibition games.
Surfcoast Basketball Association advocated for the project and secured $500,000 in Australian Government funding through the Investing in the Community program.
Federal Member for Corangamite Libby Coker, Surf Coast Shire Mayor Libby Stapleton, Deputy Mayor Tony Phelps and Councillor Joel Grist joined players, families and spectators to celebrate the new seating before Saturday's opening match.
Federal Member for Corangamite Libby Coker: "Wurdi Baierr Stadium now has more than 550 new seats to ensure the facilities deliver the best experience possible for local players and their families.
"It's a great outcome, it will support larger events including shows, conferences, school and community events and so much more.
"The Australian Government understands grass roots sport is at the heart of our communities, it's where our children form friendships and learn life lessons that shape who they are, and that's why this new seating and the show court is such a win for communities on the Surf Coast."
Surf Coast Shire Council Mayor Libby Stapleton: "We thank the Australian Government for funding this installation, which is a significant investment for the stadium and our community.
"We also congratulate the Surfcoast Basketball Association for its vision and advocacy for the retractable seats.
"Big games at the stadium will now have a great atmosphere."
