How Is Badminton and Pickleball Centre Bringing Brendale Locals Together?
A good game gives you a reason to get moving. A welcoming group gives you a reason to come back.
At Northside Badminton & Pickleball Centre, that is the community we are building: a place where you can turn up for a hit, meet someone new and make playing part of your week.
Our Brendale centre was recently featured in Moreton Daily. The story explored why Kim Bullock and Naresh Lingutla opened the venue and what has grown around the courts since. Here is our invitation to experience it for yourself.
A local idea with people at its heart
Kim and Naresh understood the frustration of wanting to play badminton on Brisbane’s northside and struggling to find a dedicated venue nearby. They saw an opportunity to give locals somewhere to play closer to home.
Opening in early 2026, Northside Badminton & Pickleball Centre brought that idea to Brendale. The courts matter, of course. But so does what happens around them: introductions before a game, encouragement during a rally and conversations afterwards.
For someone living in Brendale, Strathpine, Lawnton or Albany Creek, a local sporting venue can become a regular meeting place. You do not have to build an entire social group before taking the first step.
You can come along without a playing partner
One of the biggest barriers to trying a sport is surprisingly simple: finding someone to play with. Friends may be busy, your partner may prefer something else, or you may be new to the area.
Our organised social sessions give you another option. You can register individually, meet other players and join games without arranging your own court group. Staff help organise play, with the aim of bringing together people of similar experience.
You might be learning your first shots, returning after years away or looking for a regular game. Tell us where you are starting, and we can help you choose an appropriate session. Check the current social-session information before attending, as times and availability can change.
What is the best way for you to get started?
Choose three answers for a suggested next step. This guide helps you decide where to begin; it does not check live availability or reserve a place.
Social session or court hire: which suits you?
Both options get you playing, but they solve different problems. A social session helps you find other people to play with. Court hire gives your own group a time and space to enjoy together.
| Your plan | A useful starting point | Why it fits |
|---|---|---|
| Come alone and meet players | Organised social session | You can register individually. |
| Play with your own friends | Private court hire | Keep your group together. |
| Try a family activity | Court hire, with advice from staff | Plan around your family’s experience. |
| Learn or improve technique | Ask about coaching | Discuss the support you need. |
If you want a private game with only your own group, court hire will usually suit that plan better than a mixed social session. If you are unsure about a session’s level, ask before booking.
First time? You do not need to arrive confident
Walking into an unfamiliar venue can feel harder than the sport itself. You may wonder whether everyone already knows each other, whether you will keep up or whether you have brought the right equipment.
Those are reasonable questions. Let the team know you are new. Asking about the format, ability level and what to bring can make your first visit feel much more straightforward.
You can also start with a friend if that feels easier. The aim of your first visit does not need to be a perfect game. It can simply be getting comfortable with the space, enjoying a few rallies and deciding when you would like to play again.
Indoor courts, equipment hire and the right shoes
Playing indoors removes the wind from the equation, which makes a difference when a badminton shuttle is in the air. Our dedicated indoor courts give badminton and pickleball players a place to focus on their game.
You can bring your own suitable gear, or ask about racquet, paddle and shoe hire. Hire is subject to availability, so check ahead if you need equipment or a particular shoe size. There is also an on-site pro shop.
Suitable non-marking indoor court shoes are required. Regular running shoes may not meet the centre’s requirements, so read the shoe policy rather than assuming your usual trainers are suitable.
- Wear comfortable clothing you can move in.
- Bring water and a towel if you need one.
- Check footwear and hire arrangements before your visit.
- Leave time to introduce yourself and get ready.
A different kind of family outing
Family time does not always need a big itinerary. Sometimes a shared court, a few missed shots and a rally that lasts longer than expected are enough.
Badminton and pickleball give families something to do together, rather than simply watch together. You can take turns, practise a skill and enjoy the moments when someone surprises themselves.
Northside Badminton & Pickleball Centre also offers coaching, children’s activities and school holiday programs. Contact the team for current options and age suitability. Families with younger children should check supervision and participation arrangements before choosing a session.
Make time beyond the game
The centre includes pool tables and a separate wellness and recovery area, with infrared saunas, an ice bath, massage chairs and a stretching space.
You can book wellness facilities separately from court play. If you are interested, view the wellness booking information for the facilities, session arrangements and requirements. It is another way to spend time at Northside, whether or not you are picking up a racquet that day.
Plan your first visit
Start with the experience you want. Would you like to meet players, spend time with friends or try a new family activity? Then choose your sport and check the relevant booking information.
For organised games, use our social-session page. For your own group, view badminton court hire or pickleball court hire. If you plan to attend regularly, review the current membership options and participation requirements.
You will find us at Shed 1/14 Kenworth Place, Brendale QLD 4500. Need help choosing? Call 0416 437 676 or send the team a question.
Questions before you come along
Can I join a social session on my own?
Yes. You can register individually for organised social badminton or pickleball. Check the current timetable and ask which session suits your experience.
Are beginners welcome at Northside Badminton & Pickleball Centre?
Yes. Contact the team to choose a suitable session or ask about coaching before your first visit.
Do I need my own racquet, paddle and shoes?
Equipment and suitable court shoes are available to hire, subject to availability. Check ahead for the equipment and sizes you need.
Where is Northside Badminton & Pickleball Centre?
The centre is at Shed 1/14 Kenworth Place, Brendale QLD 4500, on Brisbane’s northside in the City of Moreton Bay.
Can I book wellness facilities without playing?
Yes. Wellness facilities can be booked separately from badminton or pickleball. Check the wellness booking page for current arrangements and requirements.
Your next game could start a new routine
Come for a hit. Meet someone new. Make a little more room in your week for something you enjoy. Whether it is your first visit or your return to the court, we would love to welcome you to Northside Badminton & Pickleball Centre.