Forest Hill Chase has opened ‘The Summit’, a three-court basketball complex developed in partnership with Nunawading Basketball, marking the next phase of the centre’s evolution.
As a first-to-market concept in Australia, the launch positions Forest Hill Chase as a pioneer of integrating community sport within a shopping centre environment, while demonstrating how retail assets can evolve beyond transactional experiences to deliver social, health and economic benefits.
Located on level 3, the opening reflects a broader strategic repositioning of retail destinations to ensure long-term relevance and performance, said Ben Finger, MD at Haben, co-owner and manager of Forest Hill Chase.
“This is about creating purposeful designs that drive consistent visitation, deepen community connection and deliver long-term value for our partners, tenants and stakeholders,” he said.
Delivered in collaboration with Nunawading Basketball with support from Basketball Victoria, the facility responds to a growing demand for indoor basketball courts across Victoria through a public–private partnership.
“‘The Summit’ is an exciting example of how cross-sector collaboration can help unlock new infrastructure opportunities in metropolitan areas where space is limited, while also creating stronger, more connected communities,” Nick Honey, CEO at Basketball Victoria, added.
“This project not only supports the continued growth of basketball, but it also highlights the broader role sport can play in improving community health, social connection and action within existing urban environments.”
Mark Hallett, CEO of Nunawading Basketball, also said that the new facility would provide a “high-quality, accessible” venue for players at all levels, while strengthening the “social fabric” of the community.
He said the model is expected to deliver tangible benefits across multiple stakeholder groups, from retailers and commercial partners to local families and sporting organisations.
“This is about providing accessible, structured opportunities for the wider basketball community to participate, connect and thrive,” said Ingrid Vanin, Forest Hill Chase centre manager.
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