Announcements, Featured - July 24, 2025
Game On for All Abilities in Mildura
Intereach is breaking barriers in sport with the launch of an inclusive wheelchair basketball program in Mildura.
The first of its kind in the region, Hot Wheelies is a six-week all-abilities program designed to introduce participants to the fundamentals of wheelchair basketball, blending skill development with match play in a fun, welcoming and supportive environment.
Made possible by a Sport and Recreation Victoria Regional All Abilities Participation Grant, the no-cost program will run from 10 August to 14 September.
Hot Wheelies is led by Intereach, 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. It has been co-designed with people who have lived experience of disability.
“At Intereach, we believe sport is for everyone. Hot Wheelies is more than a basketball program, it’s about breaking down barriers, building confidence, encouraging long-term participation and fostering a culture of inclusion in Mildura’s sporting community."
Rebekah Clifford - Project Lead and Intereach LAC Program Manager
Hot Wheelies People with Disability Ambassador Hannah Hayes said this was an incredible opportunity for people to engage with the sport — as players, coaches, referees or coordinators.
Hannah was born with Spina Bifida and has been using a wheelchair for more than 16 years. She is a passionate advocate for an inclusive community and creating spaces where everyone feels welcome and valued.
“Hot Wheelies is opening doors for people with disability to get involved, feel included and thrive in sport – it’s a big win for inclusion in our community,” Hannah (pictured left) said.
Joining the program as Basketball Ambassador is Nikhil Peters, a professional basketball player from California, who is in Mildura to play for the King Construction Men Heat during the 2025 Big V season.
With a wealth of basketball knowledge, Nikhil will be attending the Sunday sessions at the Hothouse Stadium to offer coaching support to participants.
“I’m so excited to be part of Hot Wheelies and experience the sport in a new way,” Nikhil said.
“Basketball has been such a big part of my life, and I’m keen to jump in a wheelchair and learn how to master the game from a different perspective.”
Left: Hot Wheelies Basketball Ambassador Nikhil Peters takes a shot, defended by Project Lead and Intereach LAC Program Manager Rebekah Clifford, watched on by Mildura Basketball Association Director of Participation & Development Mahaela Jackson.
Open to people of all ages, backgrounds, experience levels and abilities, including Aboriginal and culturally diverse participants, Hot Wheelies also welcomes able-bodied players.
With access to sports wheelchairs and basketballs provided on-site at the Hothouse Stadium, participants can also bring their own equipment if preferred. Free transport will also be available for all registered participants, volunteers, and supporters.
Mildura Basketball Association Director of Participation & Development Mahaela Jackson said the club was proud to partner with Intereach and host the region’s first inclusive wheelchair basketball program at the Hothouse.
“We are looking forward to bringing Hot Wheelies to life — making sport more accessible for everyone in our community,” Mahaela said.
The program will be launched on Sunday 10 August at 2pm at the Hothouse Stadium, 50-52 8th St, Mildura, with everyone welcome to attend.
For information or to register for the sessions, visit www.mildurabasketballassociation.com.au/wheelies
If you have any questions, contact on 5055 2900 or email rebekah.clifford@intereach.com.au
Share
