Cleared for take-off: Vibe Hotel Canberra partners with The UC Capitals
CANBERRA: Vibe Hotel Canberra has announced a new partnership with the University of Canberra Capitals (UC Capitals), supporting women’s sport in the nation’s capital through an alliance with the Women’s National Basketball League’s (WNBL) most successful team.
The partnership brings together two proud Canberra businesses, united by a shared commitment to community and the continued growth of Australian sport and showcasing the nation’s capital. As Canberra continues to strengthen its position as a hub for elite competition, the collaboration will also contribute to the city’s visitor economy.
Conveniently located for both visiting teams and travelling fans, Vibe Canberra offers a strategic base for the UC Capitals throughout the national competition. Its proximity to the airport ensures seamless arrivals and departures for away games, while providing an ideal environment for preparation, performance, and recovery across the season.
TFE Hotels’ Global Sales Officer, Shahnaz Bakhshay, said the Capitals represented everything that's great about Canberra sport — excellence, community and developing future generations of athletes.
“This partnership has a clear purpose. The Capitals are central to Canberra sport. They’ve built a record nine championships and a pipeline of talent that keeps feeding the top level. Supporting that matters for the game, for young players coming up through the ranks, and for the city,” Bakhshay said.
“As a locally owned and operated hotel, we’re proud to support that legacy while helping elevate the strength, impact and visibility of women’s basketball in the nation’s capital.”
Founded in 1984, the UC Capitals are the most successful team in WNBL history, with a record nine championship titles. The club has long played a pivotal role in inspiring the next generation of athletes, while championing values of teamwork, respect and community engagement.
UC Capitals Executive General Manager, Christy Collier-Hill, said the partnership carried weight on and off the court.
“This is a team that carries the city with it. Having a partner that understands Canberra - and operates in it every day — makes a difference,” Collier-Hill said. “The practical side of competition also matters. “Travel, rest and preparation. Vibe Canberra is built for that. But there’s also shared ground in how both organisations think, about people, about standards and about showing up every day.”
"Our athletes spend a significant part of the season travelling, so having a partner who genuinely understands high-performance environments and the importance of comfort and preparation is invaluable. Just as importantly, Vibe shares our passion for showcasing Canberra and creating exceptional experiences for everyone who visits our city."
The partnership comes as the UC Capitals prepare for the upcoming WNBL season with a re-energised roster, anchored by rising stars and international talent. The squad includes WNBA prospect Nyadiew Puoch, Olympian and elite scorer Amy Atwell, and exciting new signings including New Zealand Tall Ferns, Charlotte Whittaker and Sharne Robati, alongside Australian guard Isabel Palmer and Aussie forward, Manuela “Manny” Puoch.
With games held at AIS Arena, the team continues to draw strong local support while building national momentum for women’s basketball.
“The Capitals have a strong legacy in the WNBL and play an important role in inspiring the next generation of athletes across the region. Being part of that journey and helping elevate the visibility of women’s basketball in Canberra is something we’re incredibly proud of,” Bakhshay said. “We’re excited to welcome players, supporters and visitors through our doors and shine a spotlight on Canberra as a vibrant destination for sport and culture.”
Ends.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Jodi Clark - TFE Hotels (Director of Communications) | +61 499 900 658 | [email protected]
Grace Buckmaster – UC Capitals (Marketing & Communications Coordinator) | +61 415 747 137 | [email protected]
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ABOUT VIBE HOTELS
Vibe Hotels are hotels designed to connect guests to their work, their fellow guests, and the local area. Each has spaces and experiences that allow guests to be inspired, with innovative interior design in bright rooms and cool communal areas. Drink and dining offerings feature fresh and local, allowing guests to connect with their inner foodie. www.vibehotels.com
ABOUT THE CAPS
The University of Canberra Capitals are a nine-time Women's National Basketball League (WNBL) championship team based in Canberra, Australia. Affectionately nicknamed the UC Caps, the club prides itself on being Canberra's most successful national sports team and WNBL championship record-holders. Most recently, the UC Caps took out the minor premiership and championship for the WNBL 2018-19 season.
Emerging from the structure of local basketball with strong heritage based in Basketball ACT, the UC Caps continue to maintain a strong and productive relationship with grass roots and community basketball in the Canberra region. Their representation and success on national and international levels has allowed them the opportunity to establish a national profile with a local focus. The 2019 ACT Canberra Citizen(s) of The Year award presented to the UC Capitals and their supporters is a testament to the community focus of the club.
KEY DATES
Pre-Season: Fri 4th Sep – Thu 15th Oct 2026
Townsville Tip-Off (Official Pre-Season Tournament): Thu 17th Sep – Sun 20th Sep 2026
First Date of Regular Season: Fri 16th Oct 2026
First Home Game: Sat 16th Oct 2026
Last Date of Regular Season: Sun 31st Jan 2027
Semi and Championship Finals series: Throughout February
Season ends: Late Feb or early March