For Gail Harbott, life in a wheelchair doesn’t mean slowing down – it means pushing forward on and off the basketball court.
A proud resident of Accessible Homes Australia’s (AHA) One Grant venue Hope Island Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), Gail is also a driving force behind a new venture in Australian sport: the Gold Coast Rollers Women’s Wheelchair Basketball Team.
As a founding member of the team’s organising committee, Gail is helping make history. On May 31, 2025, the Rollers will debut in the Women’s National Wheelchair Basketball League (WNWBL), the first women’s wheelchair basketball team formed on the Gold Coast, with their main goal to break down barriers, promote inclusive participation, and give women with disability a national stage on which to shine.
The newly formed team is coached by Paralympian Ella Sabljak, and includes many strong, talented players, including Paralympians Bridie Kean and Melanie Thompson.
The team’s journey is not one they take alone. Behind them stands AHA, a sponsor of the Rollers. An award-winning provider of ding modern, tailored, and inclusive SDA homes for individuals with high-support needs, AHA is dedicated to empowering people with disabilities to live independently, confidently, and fully – extending beyond the home and into an inclusive community Their support of the Rollers is a natural extension of that mission. Their sponsorship ensures the team is equipped and supported from day one, covering uniforms, travel, and equipment.
“Living at AHA’s One Grant Avenue Hope Island apartments has given me so much freedom and opportunity, and now, seeing AHA support the Rollers reinforces their message that individuals with a disability can live their best lives, in sport and beyond,” said Gail.
“Wheelchair basketball is an inclusive and exciting sport, regardless of ability or disability. It’s about playing to your strengths and feeling part of something bigger.”
Gail knows this firsthand. She rediscovered her love for basketball five years ago. Today, she’s a passionate local player, advocate, and mentor, helping others find connection and confidence through the game.
“Some people join the local, casual games to try something new and end up finding friendship, purpose, and joy. Many arrive unsure of their abilities and leave empowered. It’s not just good for the players – carers, families, and support workers often find it a wonderful experience to see the happiness and enthusiasm on court.”
AHA Founder and CEO Perry Cross says they’re proud to support the Gold Coast’s first WNWBL team.
“These women are incredible athletes, and we’re excited to support them as they take on teams across the country. Adaptive sport is a powerful way to promote inclusion and highlight the amazing abilities of people with disabilities,” said Perry.
“Our partnership with the team is about more than just sport. Supporting them aligns with a deeper mission: building inclusive communities that empower people to live independently. Our new purpose-built SDA homes in Hervey Bay are a perfect example of this. We’re not just providing assisted living, we’re creating environments where residents feel supported and part of a connected community.”
As game day approaches, excitement is growing. For Gail and her team, the debut isn’t just a match – it’s a movement.”Being in a wheelchair doesn’t mean sitting still. It means finding new ways to move, connect, and shine,” said Gail.
To find out more about wheelchair basketball and follow the Gold Coast Rollers Women’s Wheelchair Basketball Teams’ journey, visit: Wheelchair Basketball Australia | Home of the NWBL and WNWBL
To learn more about AHA’s Urraween Village in Hervey Bay and to apply for tenancy, go to: Urraween Hervey Bay | Accessible Homes Australia | Specialist Disability
