Wollongong's Sporting Future: $17M Revamp to Boost Hawks and Dragons Venues
Wollongong's major sporting teams have thrown their weight behind a long-overdue plan to upgrade the city's sporting infrastructure, paving the way for the region to secure marquee sporting events. The NSW government has unveiled a significant investment to revitalise the Illawarra's sporting precinct, with Premier Chris Minns committing $17 million to kickstart the project.
Government Backing for Wollongong's Sports Hub
Just days after Illawarra Hawks coach Justin Tatum expressed his desire for Wollongong to host "Hoopsfest" – the NBL's version of Magic Round where all games are played in one city – the state government announced its funding initiative. The proposed upgrades aim to almost double the seating capacity at the Hawks' WIN Entertainment Centre, increasing it from 5,300 to 9,500, while also improving amenities for fans and players alike.
Next door at WIN Stadium, the St George Illawarra Dragons are set to benefit from a comprehensive redevelopment. Plans include a new northern grandstand and an extended, reconfigured southern grandstand with enhanced player changerooms. These improvements are designed to support the growth of both men's and women's sport across the region and throughout New South Wales.
Teams Rally Behind the Revitalisation Plan
Hawks chief operating officer Nicole Walker welcomed the government's commitment, stating: "Basketball is truly a worldwide sport, and this new precinct can showcase the best of Wollongong to a global audience, drawing greater interest to our club and our home venue." She emphasised that this investment represents a major leap forward for supporters, commercial partners, and the broader community.
Dragons chairman Andrew Lancaster echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of providing fans with a superior match-day experience. "Our fans have a right to expect a great experience when they come to a Dragons game, and the announced upgrades to WIN Stadium will deliver that great fan experience," Lancaster said. He added that the club aims to compete with leading organisations both on and off the field, including through modern stadium facilities.
Hoopsfest Ambitions and Regional Appeal
Coach Justin Tatum has been vocal about Wollongong's potential to host high-profile events like Hoopsfest, which attracted over 35,000 attendees in Perth. "I think it'd be more enjoyable [here] because the beach vibes and the great weather, and then Sydney is only 1 hour and 20 minutes away," Tatum remarked. He believes that despite the current venue's smaller capacity compared to Perth's RAC Arena, a packed WIN Entertainment Centre would create an electric atmosphere for basketball fans.
Tatum also noted the logistical advantages of hosting such events locally, citing the strain of long-distance travel. "I don't like travelling to Perth; travelling that far, and then to not have the outcome that I want, or that we want," he explained. Having Hoopsfest in Wollongong would eliminate these challenges while still delivering the same level of competition and community engagement.
Broader Impact and Future Developments
The initial $17 million funding is allocated for planning work, with no specific timeline for construction yet established. However, the vision extends beyond immediate upgrades. The Dragons are concurrently developing a $65 million centre of excellence at the University of Wollongong's innovation campus, further solidifying the region's commitment to sporting excellence.
Sporting competitions and officials nationwide are closely monitoring these developments as they seek suitable venues for major events, concerts, and shows. The Wollongong revamp positions the Illawarra as a competitive destination for hosting national and international sporting spectacles.
As Nicole Walker summarised: "This important first step and commitment to investment from the NSW government represents a major leap forward for our supporters, our commercial partners, and the broader community." With both the Hawks and Dragons backing the plan, Wollongong's sporting future looks brighter than ever.
