General News
19 July, 2026
From Nepal to Warrnambool
A SHARED love of basketball and a yearning for a new life in Australia has seen Binesh Neupane and Luuniva Singh make their home in Warrnambool.
Binesh and Luuniva were both born and raised in Kathmandu, Nepal, where basketball became a very important part of their lives from an early age.
“We both developed a love and passion for basketball at a young age,” Binesh said.
“Through dedication, hard work, and commitment to the sport, we had the honour of representing Nepal and playing basketball overseas.
“Throughout our basketball careers, we also competed in many major tournaments in Nepal and Australia and were fortunate to win several championships.
“Basketball has given us unforgettable memories, lifelong friendships, and opportunities to represent our country.”
Their love and passion for the sport brought them together.
They first met while playing basketball in Nepal in 2015.
Sharing the same passion for the game helped them build a strong connection, and in 2022 they made the bold move to Warrnambool in search of change and a new lifestyle.
“We were looking for a peaceful place where we could build our future and we quickly fell in love with the city.”
Three years later, in April 2025, they were married.
“The peaceful lifestyle, beautiful coastline, and welcoming community made us feel at home from the very beginning,” Luuniva said.
“The kindness of the people in Warrnambool made us feel welcome, and before long we knew this was the place we wanted to call home.”
Basketball has continued to play a big part of their lives since moving to Warrnambool.
They have both played in the Warrnambool domestic basketball leagues and have enjoyed becoming part of the local sporting community.
“I have been fortunate to win two most valuable player (MVP) awards and two division championships in the Wednesday night competition,” Binesh said.
“My wife has also continued her love for the game by playing in the local women’s basketball league.
“For both of us, basketball is more than just a sport. It has shaped who we are, introduced us to lifelong friends, brought us together as a couple, and helped us connect with our new community in Australia.”
Binesh and Luuniva hope their story encourages people from every culture and heritage to get involved in local sports and community activities.
They are firm believers that sport has the power to bring people together, break down barriers, and create lasting friendships regardless of where people come from.
“We are incredibly proud to call Warrnambool our home and look forward to continuing to contribute to the community through basketball and beyond,” they said.
“We hope our story inspires others to follow their passions, embrace new opportunities, and become involved in this wonderful community.”
