Council trio slam-dunk silver in state championship

While Bundaberg Regional Council is always proud of a local win, the recent silver-medal finish for the Bundy Bears was extra special with three staff making key contributions.

Council employees Louise Webb, Stacy Kaandorp and Summer Woods were all part of the team to achieve Bundaberg Basketball’s most significant Bears achievements in more than a decade.

Not only did the Bundy Bears senior women’s team claim silver in the Queensland State League 2 (QSL2) championship – making it to the grand final for only the second time in the club’s history – but Council’s Sport and Recreation Officer Louise was named as the 2026 QSL2 Women’s Coach of the Year.

Flood recovery shaped much of the season, with the team forced to train and compete at multiple venues across the region.

As Head Coach Louise led the program through its four‑year rise, supported by Development Coach and Council Senior Organisational Development Business Partner Stacy while Guard and Council administration trainee Summer contributed on the court.

Louise was the league’s only female Head Coach and the Bears fielded the competition’s only all‑female coaching cohort.

The ever-humble Louise played down her own success contributing the achievement to every member of the team.

“I am very proud of the team and it is wonderful to see them rewarded for all of their hard work over the past four seasons,” Louise said.

“They played hard and with heart.

“They gave everything out on the court and you can’t ask for more than that.”

Speaking of her fellow Council colleagues, Louise said Stacy’s contribution had been vital.

“Stacy has been a wonderful addition to the Bears over the past two seasons,” Louise said.

“She has consistently helped foster a positive and supportive environment while playing an important part in shaping the culture we want to build moving forward.

“Coaching is about far more than basketball strategies and Stacy has shown a genuine ability to connect with each player, support their development and ensure they are well prepared for games,” she said.

She said Summer made a major on‑court contribution, showing strong defensive energy and clear impact during games.

“We asked a lot of Summer this year and you can directly see the impact she makes on the game,” Louise said.

“This season she stepped into a new role that put the ball in her hands a lot and she didn’t hesitate.

“She gained the confidence and trust of her teammates and directly contributed to our success.”