30/08/2026
💜💚 WDNA LEADS VICTORIA IN PARTICIPATION GROWTH!!!
Wonthaggi & District Netball Association has been recognised by Netball Victoria as the state’s fastest-growing netball association or league in 2026.
WDNA recorded an extraordinary 149.7% increase in participation, growing from 169 participants at the same point in 2025 to 422 participants in 2026 … an increase of 253 people.
The result placed WDNA at the very top of Netball Victoria’s list of affiliates by percentage growth, ahead of associations and leagues from across regional Victoria and metropolitan Melbourne.
WDNA President Virginia Hunt said the figures reflected both the strong demand for community netball across Wonthaggi and Bass Coast and the enormous contribution made by volunteers.
“This isn’t simply a great set of numbers. It represents hundreds of local children, teenagers and adults being active, making friendships, developing confidence and feeling part of their community.”
“It also reflects the extraordinary work of our committee, coordinators, umpires, coaches, team managers, clubs and volunteers, who continue to create more opportunities for people to participate.”
WDNA’s expanding calendar now includes its Saturday Junior Competition, Ladies Indoor Competition, umpire development programs and twilight and mixed netball opportunities … providing pathways for participants of different ages and experience levels.
The Association’s growth also demonstrates the increasing need for strong facilities, sustainable partnerships and continued investment in community sport across the region.
“When a local sporting association grows at this rate, it shows what is possible when passionate volunteers and the community get behind a shared vision,” Virginia said.
“It also brings new challenges. More participants mean more teams, games, umpires, volunteers, equipment and pressure on facilities. We look forward to continuing to work closely with Bass Coast Shire Council, Netball Victoria and our community partners to ensure our infrastructure and support keep pace with that growth.”
WDNA thanks every player, family, club, umpire, coach, volunteer, supporter and partner who contributed to the achievement.
Number one in Victoria for growth … and building an even stronger future for community netball in Bass Coast. 💜💚
