Stories - September 25, 2025
Hot Wheelies a slam dunk for inclusion in Mildura
Mildura’s first inclusive wheelchair basketball program has been hailed a huge win for the community.
Intereach recently wrapped up its six-week program, with plans already underway for a second season next year.
Held at the Hothouse Stadium, Hot Wheelies gave participants of all ages and abilities the chance to learn the fundamentals of wheelchair basketball in a fun, supportive environment.
Intereach Project Lead Rebekah Clifford said the program exceeded expectations and left a lasting impact on participants and the community.
“We are thrilled with how Hot Wheelies turned out. What made it truly special was that anyone – whether able-bodied or living with disability – could jump in a wheelchair and give it a go,” she said.
“We’ve had lots of interest from people who came to watch, and players told us they felt fitter and more confident, made new friends, and most importantly – had fun. That’s what inclusion through sport is all about.”
The program was inspired by the popularity of a wheelchair basketball session held during the 2024 International Day of People with Disability All-Abilities Sports Day. Intereach then secured a Sport and Recreation Victoria Regional All Abilities Participation Grant to deliver the sport in Mildura at no cost to participants.
Hot Wheelies was co-designed with people who have lived experience of disability and delivered in partnership with Mildura Basketball Association, Mildura Rural City Council, Disability Inclusion Advisory Committee, Basketball Victoria, Mallee Sports Assembly, Lime Therapy, Country Care and WeKare.
Basketball Victoria Diversity and Inclusion Officer Elliott Knight said the organisation was proud to support wheelchair basketball in Mildura.
“Hot Wheelies gives people in the region the chance to be part of a sport that’s competitive, social and inclusive. After an incredible start for the program, we’re excited to see what comes next and committed to backing its future,” he said.
Rebekah said Hot Wheelies was a living example of Intereach’s values of social justice, by promoting and protecting human rights and partnership – working together to create positive social and cultural change.
“We’re excited to build on this momentum and hope to make Hot Wheelies a permanent part of Mildura’s sporting calendar, so stay tuned.”
Intereach is proud to be the local NDIS Partner in the Community, supporting people with disability to live their best lives. To learn about our services or find support, visit www.intereach.com.au
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