The Victorian Aboriginal Community Services Association Limited (VACSAL) Statewide Basketball Tournament has been officially secured for Mildura in 2025. This exciting announcement comes from the efforts of local advocate & Wiradjuri man Steven Bowden supported by The Nationals Member for Mildura, Jade Benham MP.
The VACSAL Statewide Basketball Tournament attracts players, spectators, and families from across the state, offering a vibrant cultural exchange alongside high-level basketball competition. The tournament not only showcases the incredible athletic talents of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander athletes in junior age groups, but also senior grades, but also strengthens community connections and provides a platform for celebrating culture and identity.
Steven Bowden, Wiradjuri, a member of the Murray Valley Aboriginal Co-Operative Board, health professional at Mallee District Aboriginal Services and a passionate advocate for the local basketball and his Aboriginal community, played a crucial role in advocating for the tournament to be brought to Mildura. His tireless work, alongside the support of Ms Benham, ensured that the region will host the prestigious event, marking a significant win for the local community and economy.
Ms Benham, who has been an active player in the tournament since 2019, expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming tournament.
“Steve has done the work, I just supported him in how to navigate systems, local government and any barriers that were in the way to secure this event,” she said.
“It’s incredibly important to me because I’ve seen the impact of this carnival first hand over several years both as a friend of Steven’s, and a player who has been coached by him in both basketball and netball.”
“The VACSAL tournament is more than just a sporting event; it’s a celebration of heritage and community spirit. We are thrilled to welcome participants and spectators from across the state to experience what Mildura has to offer.”
The tournament, scheduled for the March Long weekend and is expected to bring a significant economic boost to Mildura, with local businesses and services set to benefit from the influx of visitors.
“I’m overwhelmed with emotion and super excited. Teams from Mildura and Robinvale have been travelling for over ten years for this event,” Mr Bowden said.
“We take ten teams to this tournament on some years so the fact that we will now have the ability to showcase our home region is really exciting.” Mr Bowden said.
Preparations for the event are already underway, with local organisers, working closely with VACSAL & Mildura Rural City Council to ensure the tournament is a success.
