Shiftworker leads basketball club to 500 members, named volunteer of year
Paul Robertson manages Somerset Basketball Association while working shifts, recognised as Tasmania's volunteer of the year for 2026.
The club has grown to about 500 members. Robertson was recently named volunteer of the year by Basketball Tasmania.
Robertson credits the club's welcoming culture and strong volunteer base for making the role possible. The Heat has expanded junior and senior programs significantly.
Robertson says the club now struggles with facility space as membership keeps climbing. It needs more courts to keep growing.
- About 500 members
- Club membership
- Shiftworker
- Robertson's employment
Why it mattersThe story shows how small volunteer-run clubs can thrive even when leaders have limited time, and highlights the real limits community facilities face when demand outpaces infrastructure.
AustraliaTasmanian basketball is growing participation, but local clubs need more courts to keep up with demand from families moving into community sport.
