In a dramatic late move, Port Stephens Council has entered the race to become the new home for Newcastle Basketball, creating a potential solution to the ongoing controversy surrounding the proposed Hunter Indoor Sports Centre in New Lambton.
Newcastle's Stadium Standoff
Port Stephens Councillor Giacomo Arnott raised the urgent motion this week, citing significant community opposition and 'infighting' in Newcastle regarding the planned stadium at New Lambton. 'It appears a large portion of the community there are not supportive of that land being used,' Cr Arnott stated, highlighting the timely nature of Port Stephens' intervention.
The councillor positioned the bid as a potential 'circuit breaker' for the Newcastle dispute, noting that a decision on the New Lambton proposal could be imminent. The motion directs council to immediately contact NSW ministers for support and begin building relationships with Newcastle Basketball to back a Port Stephens alternative.
Three Potential Locations Identified
The council has proposed three possible locations for the regional sports facility: Williamtown, noted for its central location between Newcastle and Port Stephens and proximity to the International Airport; Raymond Terrace, where land is already master planned for an indoor sporting complex; and Salamander Bay, currently undergoing its own master planning process.
Cr Arnott emphasised the growing popularity of basketball in Raymond Terrace, where local groups are currently using repurposed facilities. 'They are using the old croquet court that was built without a club to go onto it,' he explained. 'Anyone who has been there knows it is not a purpose-built facility - it was not made for basketball and it is not that big. We need to find a way for the sport to grow.'
Economic Benefits and Community Support
Councillor Nathan Errington voiced strong support for the motion, highlighting the potential economic and community benefits. 'From a Port Stephens perspective there should be no issues,' Cr Errington said. 'Basketball is a sport for all ages and having an indoor facility would be a major benefit for our community. It will attract thousands of people, drive economic activity and give our LGA a modern indoor sporting venue.'
The councillor also noted that government funding is 'available and ready to allocate,' making the project financially feasible despite the council's limited financial capacity.
Newcastle Basketball has not rejected the Port Stephens approach outright, but remains committed to its New Lambton proposal. Project consultant Simon Haire confirmed the organisation hasn't been formally approached by Port Stephens Council but is 'happy to engage with them on the need for indoor courts in the Port Stephens area.'
Mr Haire emphasised that a single facility won't meet regional demand, advocating for a 'network approach' with the Hunter Indoor Sports Centre serving as the regional hub for events and development. He expects the assessment process for the New Lambton proposal to be completed early next year.
The urgency of finding a solution has been heightened by NSW Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley's confirmation that Newcastle Basketball's lease at Broadmeadow won't be extended beyond 2028 if the new stadium is rejected or delayed.
