Netball’s finest return to the Illawarra as Wollongong lands Australian Diamonds test

Destination Wollongong is thrilled to announce that international netball is returning to our city, with the Origin Australian Diamonds set to face South Africa’s SPAR Proteas at WIN Entertainment Centre on Wednesday 8 October.

The match, part of a three-game series against the Proteas, marks the Diamonds’ first return to Wollongong in over a decade and is a proud moment for the region’s vibrant netball community and wider sports-loving public.

Destination Wollongong General Manager Jeremy Wilshire said the announcement was another example of the region’s growing reputation as a stage for world-class sport and entertainment.

“We’re absolutely delighted to be supporting Netball Australia in bringing international netball back to Wollongong,” Mr Wilshire said.

“This is a huge win for our community, especially the thousands of grassroots netballers who pack courts across the Illawarra every weekend.

Events like this don’t just showcase elite athletes; they inspire our young players and help grow the next generation of stars.

“It’s also another great demonstration of how Wollongong is stepping up as a destination of choice for global sport. Working alongside our partners at Council, Venues NSW and Netball Australia, we’re proud to help put the city on the map for events of this calibre.”

The fixture adds to a stellar calendar of major events secured for the region in the month of October, including the World Triathlon Championship Finals and the Down Under Crossfit Championships, while the Australian Dart Masters will take place in August.

The Diamonds’ last test in Wollongong was in 2013, and anticipation is already building for their long-awaited return, which will drive mid-week visitation.

Tickets and further match details will be released shortly.

For more information and to stay updated, visit Visit Wollongong or follow Destination Wollongong on social media.

Image: Illawarra netball players Miki, Darcie, Indy and Ava with Wollongong Lord Mayor Tania Brown and Origin Australian Diamond Sophie Dwyer. Photo: Netball Australia.