Management of Geelong’s largest basketball venue will pass out of council hands this week.
On Thursday 9 October Geelong United Basketball (GUB) will take over as the new venue manager of Geelong Arena, with the council retaining ownership of the North Geelong site but fully transitioning out of management operations.
The City and GUB are already working with all tenants and user groups to ensure minimal disruption to their use of the venue, with GUB pledging to honour all existing arrangements and negotiate in good faith in the future.
Geelong United Basketball chief executive Mark Neeld said his organisation was “thrilled” to take over management of the iconic arena, which is home to the WNBL’s Geelong Venom and NBL1’s Geelong United.
“This marks an exciting new chapter as we collaborate closely with the City of Greater Geelong and engage deeply with the wider Geelong sporting community,” he said.
“Together, we’re committed to enhancing the venue’s legacy and delivering exceptional experiences for athletes, fans and the broader community.”
The move is part of the council’s broader approach to sport venues, with the City of Greater Geelong currently transitioning to exit all golf operations on council-owned courses.
Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said the new partnership would significantly enhance the visibility of Geelong Arena.
“Geelong United Basketball is a well-established sporting organisation that has deep roots in the local community and proven experience managing basketball operations at both elite and grassroots levels,” he said.
“This transition reflects council’s broader vision to ensure that City-owned assets remain financially sustainable, highly utilised and aligned with community needs.
“It will allow the City to focus on broader asset planning and community infrastructure development, while maintaining strong partnerships with sporting stakeholders.”
