As Badminton WA looks ahead to 2026, one of our key priorities is strengthening our
commitment to Regional Development - ensuring badminton is supported, visible,
and thriving in every corner of our State.
Newly appointed Board Member Charles Pan has taken on the leadership role of the Regional Development Portfolio and said the sheer scale and geographic size of regional areas is what makes Western Australia so unique and different to other states and territories.
“Every region has its own story and it’s essential to realise that a one size fits all approach may not be suitable. It’s so important to build upon the strengths of each region to collectively grow the sport of Badminton across the State of Western Australia.We should be doing everything we can to foster Regional Development and use the sport that we all love as a conduit to bring geographically spaced regions together. It’s an exciting time for Badminton in Western Australia, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to work as a team with Rob Kennedy, and together, make a real impact for our Regional Badminton Clubs.” - Mr Pan Said.
Over recent months, Charles and Executive Officer Rob Kennedy have commenced a series of mini regional roadshows, visiting clubs, associations, and local/state government representatives across six State Government zones:
Mid West, Wheatbelt, Goldfields/Esperance, Peel, South West, and Great Southern.
These visits are guided by Badminton WA’s core customer service principles:
1. Know Me
2. Care for Me
3. Keep It Simple
4. Put Me in Control
5. Deliver Me Value
With a particular focus on the first two: Know Me and Care for Me, the pair travelled throughout the regions to better understand what badminton looks like in each community, what the priorities are, and how Badminton WA can support local growth.
Badminton WA’s Executive Officer Rob Kennedy said there is no better way to understand a region and its narrative than by getting out there and meeting our members face-to-face.
“We are in the process of putting together a Regional Development Plan, and visiting Regional Clubs is an important first step. I would urge all regionally based clubs to contact Badminton WA so that we can better understand your needs and discuss how we can help your members through Club Affiliation.The start of 2026 is shaping up to be one that will be remembered for a very long
time, and we have a good team of people in Perth and the Great Southern Region working around the clock to put together one of the largest Badminton tournaments in Western Australia’s history.”
What’s Coming Next?
There’s already momentum building, with one major highlight on the horizon:
Albany Bicentennial Badminton Tournament – February 28 & March 1,2026
Featuring
one of the largest prize pools in WA badminton history — $21,750, this event marks the first Ranking Tournament of 2026. Players across all grades will have the chance to earn early ranking points and compete for meaningful prizes.
We strongly encourage players, families, and supporters to book accommodation early and make the most of the long weekend in the beautiful Great Southern region.
A Regional Development Plan We Can All Be Proud Of
Beyond events, the real excitement lies in shaping a long-term RegionalDevelopment Plan, one that reflects the needs of communities, empowers local volunteers, strengthens pathways, and ensures badminton is truly a sport for all of Western Australia.
Together with our regional partners, Badminton WA is committed to building a statewide badminton landscape that is connected, sustainable, and thriving.
2026 is shaping up to be a year of growth, collaboration, and opportunity right across WA
