Basketball’s rapid growth across Australia is set to take centre stage in Melbourne’s east, with Eastland Shopping Centre unveiling a new interactive installation and major community giveaway.
With more than 1.3 million Australians now playing the sport and around 225,000 registered players in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs alone, demand for court space continues to rise. In response, Eastland has partnered with DreamCourts to offer one local family a custom backyard basketball court valued at up to $30,000.
From 27 April, part of the shopping centre will be transformed into a full-sized 14 by 8 metre court, inviting visitors to step in and take their shot. The activation is designed to reflect the region’s strong grassroots basketball culture while creating a hands-on experience for shoppers.
The program will also feature appearances from key figures in the sport, including Chris Goulding, who will visit on 3 May, alongside meet and greets with Ringwood Hawks players Jonathan Lawton and Honey Kaur.
Ken Harrington, Head Basketball Coach at Ringwood Hawks, said the DreamCourts activation at Eastland reflects the east’s love of the game and its grassroots growth.
“Basketball is so popular in the east that we now have a waiting list of eager players hungry to be part of the sport. We’re at capacity with 4,703 active members across all ages and abilities, so a prize like this will make a huge difference to a local family.”
“A backyard court gives both a family and an entire neighbourhood a space to play and practice. That’s what makes this partnership between Eastland and DreamCourts so meaningful for our community,” Mr Harrington said.
Eastland General Manager Greg Balmforth said the initiative recognises the importance of basketball to local families, while DreamCourts founder Luke Tadich added that a home court can become a central part of everyday life.
The installation will also host skill sessions and mini competitions, giving visitors a chance to get involved throughout the campaign.
