Updated Tornadoes Statement on NBL1 Licence Process in Northern Tasmania
The See Eyecare Launceston Tornadoes welcome Basketball Tasmania’s recent communication regarding the future of NBL1 basketball in Northern Tasmania, confirming what we have always strongly believed: that elite basketball must continue to be delivered equitably across the North and North West, while respecting the history and deep community roots of both the Launceston Tornadoes and North West Thunder. A copy of Basketball Tasmania’s communication is available alongside this statement (below).
This has been our position from the outset. A combined model that maintains a strong presence in both regions is not only possible, but also essential.
In the interest of transparency, we wish to share that on the 5th of May we sent an extensive 11- page letter to Basketball Tasmania, copying in the North West Thunder board. This letter outlined our club’s position on the future of the Northern Licence and proposed suggestions on the framework and governance model that could be established.
This included:
• A newly established and neutral corporate entity to hold the Licence
• A Board with equal representation from greater Launceston and the North West
• Working committees in both regions to maintain local voice and ownership
• Retention of existing brands
• Equal distribution of games across both Launceston and the North West
A mediator was then appointed by BTAS and, subsequently, the Thunder provided their position via email. It was the Thunder’s position that a combined board running two teams over two regions wasn’t the correct solution, and they would hand in their half of the joint licence at the end of this year should the umbrella entity be the confirmed approach going forward.
While our suggested path forward did not resonate with the North West Thunder at the time, we note that Basketball Tasmania’s latest guidance closely reflects many of its core principles. In light of that, we have again reached out to the Thunder to invite them to revisit the idea of a united model that serves both regions equally.
This is not just about board structure and venues, or even the histories of both clubs, it’s about the basketball community. It’s about the young girl in Burnie dreaming of playing NBL1 alongside WNBL stars. The teenage boy in Launceston who’s finally seeing a pathway to elite men’s basketball closer to home. The volunteers who have spent countless hours behind the score table, and the thousands of kids watching from the sidelines.
Yes, splitting a club across two regions will initially have its challenges, as is often the case with significant change, but it is the right move for the State. We believe a united model will attract more funding, more support, and ultimately deliver greater investment into our athletes, our communities and our youth.
We also acknowledge that the last few days have seen heightened public discussion on this issue. Passion is understandable. But we join Basketball Tasmania in calling for respectful engagement on this issue. The sport we all love deserves nothing less.
We’re ready to work together, now and into the future. Our focus remains clear, and our position is strong. We are confident in presenting a licence application that keeps basketball thriving across both the North and North West, and reflects the depth of talent, legacy, and pride our regions share.
Let’s build a future that’s bigger than either club, one that belongs to the whole of Northern Tasmania.
If this message resonates and you’re interested in supporting the organisation, whether as a sponsor, volunteer, board member, or collaborator on a proposal to strengthen NBL1 teams across the North and North West under a united model, please reach out to admin@tornadoes.com.au
See Eyecare Launceston Tornadoes Board
