History & Legacy

The Nunawading Basketball Centre, located on East Burwood Reserve, Burwood Highway, East Burwood, is one of Australia’s most iconic basketball venues. From its beginnings in the 1960s to today, the Centre has become synonymous with basketball excellence, community development, and elite competition.

Origins & Construction

• 1963: Melbourne East Boys Basketball Association founded.

• 1966: Stadium Building Sub-Committee formed to address the growing demand for courts.

• 1968: Nunawading Council site secured after local advocacy and community fundraising.

• 1970: Official opening of the original two-court Centre on 24 July by Victorian Premier Dick Hamer.

Unique Feature: The Centre was built and funded entirely by basketball patrons under the administration of the Nunawading Amateur Basketball Association (NABA) — a non-profit, community-focused organisation. All profits are reinvested into basketball facilities and programs.

Key Milestones & Upgrades

1970s – 1980s:

• Fundraising projects included art shows and the World Snooker Championships.

• Expansion and upgrades of courts and infrastructure to support the growing community.

1983 – 1989:

• Courts 3 & 4 added, car park upgraded, with council-supported interest-free loans.

• Court 5 added in 1989, along with upgrades to services and infrastructure.

1990s – 2000s:

• Major upgrades included conference rooms, change rooms, lounges, offices, canteen, and ongoing maintenance of courts.

• Public liability challenge in 2002 resolved with last-minute insurance coverage, ensuring continuous operation.

• Continued investment in scoreboards, rings, backboards, lighting, and technology.

2010s – Present:

• Modernisation of facilities including:

  • LED screens, online scoring, shot clocks, court insulation, and conference technology

  • Cafe, retail store, office renovation, and Hall of Fame improvements

• Over $6 million invested in maintenance, fixtures, and upgrades since 1969.

• The Centre celebrated its 10 millionth visitor in 2008, highlighting its importance in the community.

Centre Today

The Nunawading Basketball Centre is home to:

• Melbourne East Basketball Association (MEBA) – 800 teams and 7,000+ players per week

• Nunawading Spectres – Representative teams at Junior, Senior, and Elite levels

Facilities Include:

• 5 full-sized basketball courts

• Wheelchair accessibility

• Conference & function rooms with bar and commercial kitchen

• Cafe and retail store

• Modern scoring, LED screens, and sound systems

The Centre continues to serve as a major sporting and community hub, hosting competitions, development programs, national tournaments, and community events.