Sport
18 January, 2026
Playing ball game with pride
CAIRNS basketball enthusiasts are being invited to join a new inclusive sporting initiative, with Spectres Australia Pride Basketball partnering with Team Rainbow to establish an LGBTQIA+ Cairns Spectres Pride Basketball team.
The new team will be officially launched across two community events on Saturday 7 February and Sunday 8 February, bringing together players, supporters and families to celebrate inclusion and participation in sport.
The launch begins with a community lunch at The Woolshed from 12pm.
Spectres Australia Pride Basketball representatives Andrew Bondini and Barb Kirby will outline their vision for establishing an official Spectres team in Far North Queensland.
Team Rainbow, an Australian registered charity, will also provide updates on preparations for the 2026 Gay Games in Valencia and Perth’s successful bid to host the 2030 Gay Games.
A ‘Play with Pride’ open day will follow on Sunday 8 February at Cairns Basketball, Manunda, from 10am to 12pm.
The come-and-try session is open to all ages and abilities, welcoming beginners, experienced players, families and allies to take part in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Team Rainbow events manager David Schacht said the initiative addressed broader community needs.
“Play with Pride Cairns represents more than just a sporting initiative – it’s a community-wide commitment to acceptance that addresses real barriers faced by marginalised groups,” Mr Schacht said.
“The program’s focus on creating safe spaces has particular significance in regional areas where LGBTQIA+ individuals may have limited access to supportive communities.”
Spectres Australia founder and CEO Andrew Bondini said the organisation had seen strong outcomes from similar teams nationwide.
“Creating a Cairns Spectres team is about more than basketball. It provides real connection, visibility and gives people a place where they can play, belong and be themselves,” he said.
Cairns Taipans CEO Mark Beecroft said the club welcomed the initiative and looked forward to working with Spectres Australia during the Taipans’ upcoming Pride round and beyond.
“This is an exciting development for basketball participation in Far North Queensland,” Mr Beecroft said.
All interested community members are encouraged to attend.
More information and registration details are available at www.bit.ly/3LoKYES
