NBL & Bunnings back CFA at Blitz

The 2026 CODE Sports NBL Bendigo Blitz will support local firefighters through a new partnership with Bunnings.

The NBL and Bunnings have joined forces to deliver a giving initiative for the pre-season tournament, with every three-point shot made across the five days triggering a $40 donation to Bendigo's CFA.

The NBL will also provide complimentary tickets throughout the tournament, which begins Wednesday 2 September, for CFA volunteers, their families, and fire-affected members of the community.

The initiative comes in the wake of the catastrophic bushfires that tore through regional Victoria, including the Greater Bendigo area in January 2026. The fires prompted a State of Disaster declaration across 18 local government areas, and forced residents into relief centres as crews battled the blazes. Funds raised will directly support the CFA brigades who responded, as well as fire-affected families across the Bendigo region.

Last year's Blitz produced 283 made three-pointers. It's hoped this year's tournament follows a similar trajectory and could deliver more than $10,000 to the local CFA chapter.

"The CFA volunteers who responded in January put everything on the line for their community. This is one small way we can turn what happens on the court into something that matters off it. I want to personally thank Bunnings for supporting this initiative and for everything they do as part of our long-standing partnership," said NBL Chief Product Officer, Alex Hamilton.

Bunnings Head of Community, Partnerships and Events, Michelle Walter said:

"The bushfires that impacted Greater Bendigo and communities across regional Victoria earlier this year were devastating, and our teams saw firsthand how CFA volunteers worked tirelessly to protect lives, homes and communities.

"Bunnings is proud to join the NBL in recognising the CFA's extraordinary efforts and provide further support to local brigades and affected families. We hope every three-pointer scored during the Blitz helps make a meaningful difference to the Bendigo community as it continues to recover."

CFA's Deputy Chief Officer Garry Cook said: "CFA's 52,000 members work hard to protect their local communities all year round and this event is a nice way for our members to feel some recognition, unwind and enjoy the game."