Where to see Lightning strike in milestone season
Sunshine Coast Lightning is set to celebrate its 10th season in the Suncorp Super Netball league in 2026. Featuring a refreshed squad, exciting fixtures including First Nations Rounds, and expanded global broadcast coverage.
Sunshine Coast Lightning
Sunshine Coast Lightning is gearing up for a landmark 10th season in the Suncorp Super Netball league, with the 2026 fixture officially released and excitement building across the region.
The season will get underway on Saturday, March 14, with Lightning heading west to face the West Coast Fever in Perth – a nostalgic nod to the inaugural match of the league in 2017.
Round 3 will be the first time when fans can see Lightning live at home, hosting the Queensland Firebirds at UniSC Arena. Fans can expect a high-energy clash as the state’s top teams go head-to-head.
The 2026 season also includes two Easter Sunday matches, with Lightning travelling to Melbourne to take on reigning premiers, the Vixens, at John Cain Arena in Round 4.
First Nations Rounds will be held during National Reconciliation Week (May 27 – June 3), with Lightning playing away against the Melbourne Mavericks before returning home to host GIANTS Netball at UniSC Arena.
The regular season wraps up on Saturday, June 13, with Lightning’s final home game ahead of the Finals Series.
To view the full fixture, visit Sunshine Coast Lightning’s website.
Sunshine Coast Council Resilient Economy Portfolio Councillor Terry Landsberg said the Lightning’s continued success was a source of pride for the region, as the team continued to showcase community spirit, resilience and excellence in sport.
“They’ve built a loyal fan base, inspired countless young athletes, and brought national attention to our region, and Council is proud to stand behind them as a Foundation Principal Partner,” Cr Landsberg said.
“We’re proud to continue supporting Lightning, and we look forward to cheering them on throughout their milestone 10th season.”
Cr Landsberg said Lightning’s impact extended well beyond the court.
“From inspiring young athletes to celebrating First Nations culture through sport, Lightning continues to make a meaningful contribution to our community,” Cr Landsberg said.
Who’s in the squad?
With Australian netball legend, and Sunshine Coast Lightning Captain, Steph Fretwell retiring from elite netball and Vice Captain Tara Hinchliffe’s departure from the team, Lightning's 2026 line-up will see a number of changes, including the recent signing of shooting superstar Donnell Wallam and New Zealand representative Karin Burger.
2026 Sunshine Coast Lightning Squad:
- Cara Koenen
- Liz Watson
- Courtney Bruce
- Ashleigh Ervin
- Leesa Mi Mi
- Mahalia Cassidy
- Donnell Wallam
- Ava Black
- Karin Burger
- Gabby Sinclair
Don’t miss a game.
Fans can look forward to global coverage of the 2026 season, with AWSN (All Women’s Sports Network) and Inverleigh partnering with Netball Australia to broadcast matches to more than 120 countries. Domestically, Fox Netball and SEN will provide comprehensive coverage.
Lightning memberships will be available in the coming months, with tickets for the 2026 season going on sale early next year.