About Hoops247
Hoops247 is an indoor sports centre in Dandenong South (41 Princes Highway) specialising in basketball training and related activities. It opened in the mid-2010s as a private sports facility and brands itself “Where Stars Are Born,” focusing on high-intensity basketball development for all ages (www.hoops247.com.au ). The centre includes multiple courts (at least three full-sized indoor courts) that convert between basketball and futsal, plus an artificial-grass pitch for indoor soccer (pitchbooking.com ) (www.hoops247.com.au ). Signature features include its full-height ceilings, electronic scoreboard, and a dedicated Dr. Dish shooting machine used in training (australia.chamberofcommerce.com ) (www.hoops247.com.au ). It has gained local recognition – for example, its basketball-themed kids’ parties were voted Melbourne’s “Best Basketball Party” in both 2023 and 2024 (www.hoops247.com.au ). With a focus on community sport, Hoops247 has hosted local youth tournaments and clinics (even news stories have noted young players “shine” in its junior 3x3 basketball events (dandenong.starcommunity.com.au )). The centre operates year-round (see **Getting There** below for hours) and serves the South-East Melbourne community by providing clean, modern courts and training facilities (www.cylex-australia.com ).
Events and Programming
Hoops247 runs a range of basketball and indoor sports programs for all levels. Weekday and evening court hire allows casual play (“shooting sessions”) by reservation – adults and youth can book time to shoot hoops or play pick-up games. There are structured training programs and clubs, such as the “2K Shooting Club” – a weekly volume-shooting clinic (e.g. three 1-hour slots on Saturday mornings at about $30 per session) that uses the Dr. Dish shooting machine to build shooting skills (www.hoops247.com.au ). The centre also partners with organisations (like AAU) for friendly league play: for instance, an AAU-style Friday night U16 domestic league was offered for boys aged ~10–12 (www.hoops247.com.au ). In addition, Hoops247 hosts community tournaments (e.g. junior 3×3 events for local youth (dandenong.starcommunity.com.au ) or themed social tournaments for adults) and occasional clinics or camps during school breaks.
A major focus is on youth parties and developmental clinics. For example, Hoops247 is well-known as a kids’ birthday party venue, offering packages with exclusive court hire and organized games on full-size courts (www.hoops247.com.au ) (www.hoops247.com.au ). These packages typically include 1–2 hours of activities led by staff and can include extras like sport-themed cakes or pizza (party pricing often runs in the mid-$20s per child but varies by package). Parents and kids rave about the fun, and in fact Hoops247’s basketball party service was voted Melbourne’s best for two years running (www.hoops247.com.au ). They also offer junior skills courses (such as holiday camps or school-term classes) where coaches teach passing, shooting and teamwork. For soccer lovers, the outdoor-style artificial grass pitch (inside the main hall) is available for futsal training or games. (pitchbooking.com )
Tickets and Booking
There is no box office or third-party ticketing – all sessions and events at Hoops247 are booked directly. Court hire and programs must be reserved in advance. To book anything (casual shoot-around, private lesson, birthday party, etc.), you call the venue (1300 046 677) or use its online booking portal. Payment is taken by credit/debit card at the time of booking (www.hoops247.com.au ). The centre’s terms explicitly state that courts are paid for up front (no play until fully paid) and no-shows or changes of mind are not refunded (www.hoops247.com.au ). For example, the Court Hire page notes “no refunds for change of mind” and “no splitting of the bill” – one person pays for the full booking (www.hoops247.com.au ).
For parties and clinics, parents usually pay per package or per child. Casual court hire rates depend on peak times and membership status. (As a guide, some group programs like the 2K Shooting clinics cost about $30 per person per hour (www.hoops247.com.au ).) Hoops247 also offers memberships: benefits include 25% off court hire and Dr. Dish rental, 24/7 access (for authorized members), and free “casual shooting” under certain conditions (www.hoops247.com.au ). There is no posted admission cost for general spectators — only participants or party guests pay. In short, always book and pay ahead; popular times (weekends, school holidays) can fill quickly, so call a week or two out for big events.
Seating and Layout
Hoops247’s interior is essentially a large multi-court gym. The floor is lined for multiple full-size basketball courts. Courts 1 and 2 are standard basketball hardwood, while Court 3 is fitted with an all-weather turf (for futsal and multi-use) (www.hoops247.com.au ). There are no permanent stadium stands or tiered seating. Instead, metal bench seating runs along the sidelines for players/teams, and coaches or spectators typically stand around the edges of the court. One visitor review noted “benches available” along the sides (australia.chamberofcommerce.com ). Best viewing is from mid-court on the sidelines, where the scoreboard (visible on the far wall) can be easily seen (australia.chamberofcommerce.com ). Behind the baskets there is minimal space, so those are not ideal vantage points for watching full-court play. Acoustics are that of a typical gymnasium: loud (basketballs echo, music can play over overhead speakers when events are on), so be prepared for ambient noise. The ceiling is high (suitable for bounce passes) and lights are bright flood fixtures, giving an even, indoor sports lighting. There are scoreboards on each court and product timers for drills. Petty seating (e.g. small stools) can be brought from the lobby to courtside if needed.
Getting There and Parking
Hoops247 is at 41 Princes Highway, Dandenong South in Melbourne’s southeast. By car, it’s just south of Dandenong’s major junction (Princes/Fletcher roads). There is a dedicated car park on-site immediately off Princes Hwy, and parking is free for visitors – usually ample space for cars and minivans. Rideshare drop-offs (Uber/Lyft) work well; the main entrance is right on the Princes Hwy frontage, so drivers can easily pull in/out. If coming from Melbourne, take the M1/Princes Freeway exit to Dandenong and head south on Princes Hwy. From the east, Princes Hwy comes through Narre Warren and Hallam toward Dandenong South.
Public transport is available but involves some walking. The nearest train station is Dandenong Station (on the Pakenham/Cranbourne lines), about 3–4 km north – from there you’d catch a connecting bus. Several bus routes serve the area: for example, route 893 (between Cranbourne Park and Dandenong Station) stops at Doveton Ave & Princes Hwy, roughly a 3-minute walk from the venue. Routes 828 and 981 (serving Berwick and Clyde/Preserved Wild, respectively) stop at Doveton Ave & Frawley Rd (about a 7-minute walk). In practice, you can take any bus that runs down Queens Rd or Dandenong Bypass then transfer to a local 800-series bus lowering on Princes Hwy nearby. Moovit/Google Maps are recommended to plan your exact trip.
For those who prefer to walk a bit, the Princes Hwy has sidewalks up and down the frontage. The immediate neighborhood is mostly light industrial, so apart from Hoops247 there are few amenities on foot (no cafés or hotels right next door). It’s wise to check bus timetables, as the last buses/taxis at night win out. Overall, driving is easiest; if taking transit allow extra travel time and be prepared to walk a short distance from the nearest stop.
Inside the Venue
Upon entry through the main doors off Princes Hwy, you’ll find a reception/waiting area and a small pro shop. The on-site store sells sporting gear and apparel (basketballs, jerseys, sneakers, etc.), so you can pick up equipment or spare balls if needed (pitchbooking.com ). The lobby often has seating and a water cooler (the “drinking area” mentioned in reviews (australia.chamberofcommerce.com )). Look for water fountains or bottle refill stations by the courts – visitors are encouraged to bring refillable water bottles. The reception counter handles check-in: families and adults will sign waivers (standard for sports centres) and then head to their court. Outside food is not served, though vending machines or a small snack bar may sometimes be available in the lounge area. (Long events like birthday parties may have arrangements for pizza or cakes, but outside caterers must coordinate through the venue.)
Security is informal – there are no strict bag checks. Staff circulate to manage bookings and guide courts; they are consistently described as friendly and helpful (www.cylex-australia.com ) (australia.chamberofcommerce.com ). The atmosphere inside is energetic and family-friendly. You’ll see coaches or party hosts running drills or games, music playing quietly in the background during practices, and the occasional scoreboard being used to keep points in contest play. Cleanliness is often remarked on – several visitors specifically note that the courts, floors and toilets are kept very clean (www.cylex-australia.com ) (australia.chamberofcommerce.com ). Restrooms (with drinking fountain) are located just off the court area. There are no curtains or hidden spaces – it’s one big open hall, so everything is visible from anywhere in the gym. If you need gear (basketballs, futsal balls, cones), check at reception or the store; the venue typically supplies basic equipment with bookings. Some visitors say: “no food allowed on court area” and that all players must wear proper sports shoes (www.hoops247.com.au ), so plan to wear clean indoor footwear only and keep snacks in the lobby.
Nearby Amenities
Hoops247 sits in a mostly industrial/commercial stretch of Dandenong South, so immediate amenities are limited. There is a KFC drive-thru and service station just a block away (on Princes Hwy northbound) for quick drinks or fast food. A bit farther (2–4 km) is central Dandenong, which offers a full range of dining. In downtown Dandenong you’ll find everything from family-friendly pizza and fish-&-chips shops to cafes, Indian/South Asian restaurants, and sports bars (e.g. the Dandenong Hotel or nearby brewpubs). For pre- or post-game meals, many visitors head to Dandenong Plaza or Market area (4km north) where a food court, cafes and ethnic eateries are clustered. Delivery services also cover Hoops247, so teams often order pizzas to pick up or deliver to the courts.
There aren’t any hotels or entertainment complexes right next to the venue, but if you need lodging the closest ones are in Dandenong town. Options like Ibis Budget Dandenong or the Holiday Inn Express (both about 4km north) are typical choices. The Dandenong Pavilion live-music venue and some mini-golf or training facilities are also in town. Nearby shopping/neighbors are minimal – most surrounding buildings are warehouses or offices – so plan accordingly. If staying late after an event, note that the last trains from Dandenong station head to Melbourne around midnight, and late-night buses are infrequent. Ride-sharing or taxis may be needed for late departures.
What Makes This Venue Special
Hoops247 has become a community hub in Dandenong’s sports scene. Its mix of multi-use courts, extended hours, and focus on youth development sets it apart from simple public gyms. The facility’s motto and mission emphasize developing players “of all ages” – even fundamental basketball skills for three-year-olds (www.hoops247.com.au ). This child-friendly emphasis (coupled with elaborate birthday parties) means many kids take their first hoops lessons here. Unlike typical indoor stadiums, Hoops247 doubles as a training gym and party centre, fostering a fun, upbeat culture. For example, photos and news stories from 2018 showed “future stars” (U12 kids) playing a 3×3 tournament at Hoops247 (dandenong.starcommunity.com.au ), highlighting its role in grassroots youth basketball.
The venue also bridges cultures. An illustrative event in 2023 was a “Youth Hoops Session” organised at Hoops247 – an evening basketball tournament billed as “brotherhood” and “inclusive,” bringing together Muslim youth and their friends in a positive environment (www.trybooking.com ). This kind of community sports event is a point of pride: Hoops247 isn’t just building athletes, it’s building connections. Another unique aspect is the 24/7 concept (members can train outside normal hours) (www.hoops247.com.au ), something few local gyms offer. Furthermore, the facility’s design – combining both hardcourt and real turf indoors – is rare. Players and coaches appreciate that they can cross-train in one location. Many teams and schools in the south-east Melbourne area now use Hoops247 for late-night practices or camps because its amenities feel more upscale than average school gymnasiums. In short, it matters to the local scene as an indoor “home” for basketball and futsal when outdoor courts are wet or cold. Visitors and local players say the centre has an electric atmosphere – from blasting pre-game music to kids celebrating birthday wins – that makes it a lively, welcoming place to play.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The centre is built at ground level on a commercial site, so entry is step-free (just a door into a wide lobby). There are likely wheelchair-accessible parking spots near the entrance. The courts themselves are open-plan and flat, and one can wheel a chair along the sidelines. There is at least one accessible toilet (visitors mention clean restrooms and bottle-filling stations (australia.chamberofcommerce.com )). If you have any specific mobility needs, it may be wise to call ahead, but in general the layout is level and easy to navigate.
What to Bring: Wear clean athletic gear and proper sports shoes (e.g. basketball/turf shoes). The centre specifically requires court-appropriate footwear (www.hoops247.com.au ), so no street shoes. Bring a refillable water bottle – staff encourage hydration (one review even suggests “bring a drink bottle”) (www.cylex-australia.com ). You might bring your own basketball, though the venue usually provides a few. If you have ankle braces or gear, feel free to wear it; there’s a small pro shop if you forget anything. Parents bringing kids can pack light snacks (to eat in the lobby or party room, but not on the court). Also, bring any required forms or waivers – for parties you’ll fill in details on arrival.
Rules and Policies: Read the booking terms carefully. For example, no food or glass bottles are allowed on the playing floor (www.hoops247.com.au ) (water bottles only). Expect to pay in full upon arrival if not already done. The venue enforces its court rules strictly (players must stay on their assigned court). Because it’s a training facility, there is no typical “no outside people” rule – friends and family can watch from the sideline benches. Photography and filming are generally allowed (many parents video their kids) as long as you’re not using flash or tripods that block play. Please use common sense: don’t climb on equipment or stray onto active courts without permission.
Ages and Groups: Hoops247 caters to all ages. There’s no minimum age to enter (young kids often attend parties or clinics; the center even advertises programs for 3-year-olds (www.hoops247.com.au )). Children should be accompanied by a responsible adult if they are under 12. There are no formal citizenship or anti-discrimination rules beyond those applying anywhere – everyone is welcome. If booking a league or party for minors, expect staff to supervise activities. When in doubt, call ahead with questions about age limits on a particular program.
Common Pitfalls: Don’t assume there will be space if you just walk in – always book. Courts book out, especially on weekend afternoons, so plan ahead. (One tip from customer feedback: always book early and “be mindful of court availability” (www.cylex-australia.com ).) Also, double-check your booking time. Arriving late to a court hire can eat into your hour. Since this is a cashless facility, have a card ready for incidentals. If visiting in winter, the turf court and seating can get chilly when not playing – bring an extra sweater. And remember, it’s a sports centre (not a nightclub), so casual sports attire is the dress code.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Hoops247’s opening hours?
Hoops247 is open daily. Current posted hours are Monday–Friday 10 am–10 pm, Saturday 9 am–6 pm, and Sunday 10 am–8 pm (www.cylex-australia.com ). (Always check the latest schedule before you go, as hours can vary for holidays or special events.)
How do I book a court, class or party at Hoops247, and how much does it cost?
All bookings are made directly with the centre. You call 1300 046 677 or use the online booking system to reserve courts, parties or programs. Pay by credit/debit card at the time of booking (no play commences until full payment) (www.hoops247.com.au ). Prices vary: casual court-hire is typically charged by the hour, training classes around ~$30/hr (www.hoops247.com.au ), and birthday party packages are priced per child (~$25+ each). Members receive 25% off courts and free shooting perks (www.hoops247.com.au ). Check with staff for exact rates when booking.
Does Hoops247 have membership options?
Yes — Hoops247 offers memberships. Benefits include a 25% discount on all court hires and Dr. Dish rentals, 24/7 secure access to the facility (outside normal hours), and some free casual shooting sessions (www.hoops247.com.au ). There’s no joining fee or lock-in contract mentioned, making it easy to cancel. Membership fees aren’t listed publicly, so contact the centre directly for current rates and to sign up.
What sports and activities does Hoops247 offer?
Primarily basketball training and play, but also indoor soccer (futsal) and general fitness. The centre has multiple convertible courts (hardwood and turf) (www.hoops247.com.au ). Users can schedule basketball shoots, 3-on-3 games, practice dribbling/drills, or play futsal matches. They also run skills clinics and leagues (e.g. the “2K Shooting Club” and youth tournaments) for various ages (www.hoops247.com.au ) (www.hoops247.com.au ). Parties and camp-style programs are basketball-themed. There are no other sports leagues (like netball or volleyball) mentioned; focus is on hoops and indoor footy.
Can I just walk in to play, or do I need to book in advance?
You must book court time or sessions in advance. Hoops247 does not offer casual “drop-in” play. All court hires, shooting sessions and party slots are reserved by phone or online, and paid up front (www.hoops247.com.au ). If you show up without a reservation, there may not be any availability. Staff actually note that all sessions must be booked before arrival. Busy slots (weekends, after-school) fill quickly, so it’s best to phone a few days or a week ahead to secure a time.
What is the address and how do I get there by public transport?
Hoops247 is at 41 Princes Highway, Dandenong South (on the Princes Hwy frontage). By train, the nearest major station is Dandenong Station (Pakenham/Cranbourne line) – about a 3–4 km taxi or bus ride south from there. By bus, routes that pass nearby include the 893 (stopping at Princes Hwy & Doveton Ave) and the 828/981 (stopping at Princes Hwy & Frawley Rd). Both stops are about a 5–7 minute walk to the centre. In general, take a Cranbourne/Pakenham line train to Dandenong, then catch the local 800-series buses south towards the venue. If in doubt use Google/Transit apps to plan the specific bus/train route.
Is there parking at Hoops247, and is it free?
Yes. Hoops247 has its own on-site car park off Princes Highway. Parking is free and usually plentiful (although big tournament days can make it busier). The parking lot is level with the entrance. There are likely a few marked accessible spaces near the door. Street parking along nearby side roads may also be available if the lot is full. Rideshare drop-off can be done at the front entrance.
What seating is available for spectators?
The venue does not have formal spectator stands. Spectators can sit on the metal benches alongside the courts or stand along the sidelines. These bench seats are primarily meant for teams but visitors can use them too (australia.chamberofcommerce.com ). During events, people often bring their own folding chairs and place them on the edge of the court. The best viewing spots are mid-court along the side, where you can see plays develop. Behind the baskets is tight and not ideal for watching the whole court. If you need more comfort, the lobby area off the courts also has seating.
Is Hoops247 wheelchair accessible?
Hoops247 was built in a modern industrial space, so access should be mostly step-free. The main entrance leads directly into an open lobby at ground level. The gym floor is flat with no steps, and wide aisles around courts mean a wheelchair (or pram) can circulate easily. There are accessible (unisex) restrooms and presumably marked disabled parking spots. We found no formal statement, but given it’s a public sports venue in Victoria, it should meet basic accessibility standards. If you have special needs, a quick call to the centre to confirm ramp width or amenities is recommended.
Are outside shoes or food allowed?
No, street shoes and food are not allowed on the playing surface. All players must wear proper indoor sports footwear (www.hoops247.com.au ) – that means no heavy-wall street shoes or boots. The centre’s rules explicitly forbid food on the court to keep the floor clean. You can bring water bottles (the lobby/court areas have water fountains) (australia.chamberofcommerce.com ), but other drinks or snacks should stay off the courts. Outside food can be eaten in the lobby or party rooms only, not down on the court slabs.
Is Hoops247 family- and kid-friendly?
Absolutely. This venue is very kid-friendly, from toddlers up to teens. It hosts children’s parties, youth leagues, and training classes explicitly designed for young players. In fact, the centre advertises programs for kids as young as 3 years old (www.hoops247.com.au ). The environment is safe and family-oriented: expect to see players of all ages shooting hoops. If you have young children, restrooms include a drinking fountain, and the staff are used to explaining rules to kids. Just be aware that younger children should stay close to a supervising adult. Overall, families say it’s a very welcoming place for kids.
What should I bring when visiting Hoops247?
Bring athletic clothing and clean sports shoes (e.g. basketball or court shoes) since they are required for play (www.hoops247.com.au ). Also carry a refillable water bottle – there are water fountains (“drinking area”) on site (australia.chamberofcommerce.com ). If you’re booked for a session, come a few minutes early. You can bring your own basketball if you like, but the venue usually supplies balls. A towel or change of shirt might be handy if you’re training hard. For parties, pack any snack cooler or cupcakes you need (to be enjoyed off-court). Don’t bother bringing a deck of cards; this is all about hoops!
Is Wi-Fi or phone charging available?
Public Wi-Fi is not advertised, so assume none is provided. You can use your own mobile data in most corners of the gym. There are probably a few electrical outlets in the lobby area if you need to charge devices, but not beside the active courts. Many players leave phones in bags during play. If you need to go online, the reception area is your best bet for a signal.
Can I take photos or videos inside the venue?
Yes. Non-flash photography and video recording for personal use is generally fine. Families often film their kids during games or parties. Just be respectful: avoid using tripods that might block court space, and don’t disrupt play. Also be courteous of other people’s privacy (kids in other games, etc.). For party events, staff photographers sometimes take pictures, but personal phones/cameras are allowed for spectators and parents.
Are pets allowed at Hoops247?
No. Pets (other than service animals) are not allowed inside the facility. It’s an active sports environment with slippery floors and bouncing balls, so animals (except official guides) are not permitted in the court or lobby areas. For families, that means pets must stay home or in the car. Certified service dogs for vision or mobility assistance would be accommodated at the lobby entrance.
Are there restrooms and drinking fountains in the venue?
Yes. There are restroom facilities located adjacent to the courts (near the lobby). Reviews emphasize how clean the toilets are (australia.chamberofcommerce.com ). There is also a “drinking area” or water fountains in that vicinity so players can refill bottles (australia.chamberofcommerce.com ). Changing stalls or showers are not mentioned, so plan accordingly (participants often arrive already in their gear). In short, you’ll find standard toilets and sinks, plus water via fountains or coolers for hydration.
Where can I eat or stay near Hoops247?
Right beside Hoops247 there’s little more than a petrol station and a KFC for quick snacks. For a wider selection, you need to travel 2–4 km north to central Dandenong. Downtown Dandenong has many restaurants (Indian, Chinese, Italian, cafes, fast-food, etc.) and a food court at Dandenong Plaza. Pubs like the Dandenong Hotel or local bars are also in town if you want a drink after an event. The closest hotels are in Dandenong (e.g. Ibis Budget, Quality or Holiday Inn); there are no hotels in Dandenong South proper. Since the area is mostly industrial, most visitors pack snacks or eat before/after at nearby shopping centers or restaurants in the Dandenong township.
