This program is for males and females aged from 12 to 18 years, runs for eight weeks and is completely free of charge for participants to register and take part.

Registered Midnight Basketball players not only compete in a properly structured and umpired basketball competition, but are supplied healthy meals, drinks and transportation to the venue. This is coupled with a mandatory education session provided to players by specialised professionals and volunteers that impart invaluable life skills to participants in a safe and secure setting.

Tournament manager Lauren Dennis is confident of the continued success of Midnight Basketball and encourages people to get involved.

“It’s a great collaborative team effort ranging from local businesses who donate services to our invaluable volunteers, onto the players themselves, all who are positively affected by the program and the benefits are immeasurable,’’ she said.

Any potential players and volunteers are highly encouraged to contact tournament organisers. Volunteers can contribute in a number of ways and different areas.

“No matter how much or how little time you can spare the input of volunteers is always welcome and appreciated,” Lauren added.

The program draws on contributions from a number of varied sources and community sectors including the Federal Attorney General’s Safer Suburbs Program and Greater Taree City Council’s Youth Services. Other valued supporters include Bakers Choice Taree, Quota International, Live ‘n Loud Productions, Taree PCYC, Biripi Medical Centre, Mission Australia Youth Connections, Manning Great Lakes Area Command, Hunter New England Health, TAFE NSW and Wesley Uniting Employment.

Any player wishing to register are encouraged to apply online at www.midnightbasketball.org.au/tar ee

Additionally, potential players and volunteers can always drop into the Youth Referral Office at 93 Victoria Street Taree or contact the team there on 6552 5715. Alternatively contact council’s youth development officer, Jane Lynch on 6592 5338.