It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Bev Suter, a deeply respected and long-serving figure in country basketball, who passed away in Wangaratta following a long illness.
Bev’s contribution to basketball, particularly across North East Victoria and the Upper Murray region, spanned decades and touched every level of the game. She was a passionate and tireless volunteer whose work helped shape and strengthen the basketball community we see today.
At a governance level, Bev served for many years as a member of the Basketball Victoria Country Council prior to the 2010 governance review that established the current Commission structure. During this time, she also undertook the significant responsibility of a ‘Zone’ Supervisor, representing and administering basketball across the North East and Upper Murray regions on behalf of country basketball.
Bev’s commitment to junior development was particularly noteworthy. Over a period of 16 years, she played a central role in delivering regional Skills Days for Under-12 and Under-14 athletes. Working closely with Craig Hockley, Bev ensured these events were not only well-organised but welcoming and memorable for young players—handling everything from logistics and registrations to equipment, catering, and coach coordination. Her efforts provided countless young athletes with their first meaningful development experience in the game.
Bev also made a significant contribution as a team manager within the country representative pathway. She was a familiar and trusted presence at Country Jamborees, where she supported young athletes and coaches through what is often their first representative experience. Bev further extended this role with Vic Country teams at the Australian Country Junior Basketball Cup, where her organisation, care, and ability to bring people together ensured teams were well-prepared and supported both on and off the court. Her impact in these environments went beyond administration;, she created a sense of belonging and pride for players representing their regions and state.
At a local level, Bev’s impact on Wangaratta Basketball was profound. She was a long-term Board member and Senior Domestic Coordinator, dedicating countless hours to the smooth running and growth of the association. She was also a member and long-standing President of the Gotsims Basketball Club, helping oversee a strong club culture that supported generations of players and families.
Bev’s service extended across many roles within the game, she was a long-time scoretable official, including at BigV level. Her willingness to contribute wherever needed reflected her deep love of basketball and her commitment to ensuring the game thrived at every level.
More than her roles, Bev will be remembered for her reliability, generosity, and unwavering dedication to her community. She was someone who simply got things done, often behind the scenes, and always with the best interests of the game and its people at heart.
On behalf of the basketball community, we extend our sincere condolences to Bev’s husband Wayne, her children Daniel, Ben, Tim, Matthew and Mindy, and to her extended family, friends, and all those in Wangaratta and across country Victoria who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside her.
Bev Suter’s legacy will live on through the many players, officials, and volunteers she supported and inspired over many years.
