Australian basketball great Larry Sengstock takes on role as Noosa Council director of infrastructure services

A four-time Olympian who played almost 300 games for Australia is helping shape future development at a Sunshine Coast tourism hotspot.

Former Australian basketballer Larry Sengstock is now the Noosa Council's director of infrastructure services.

At almost two metres tall a new director at Noosa Council is making his presence known in more ways than most.

Australian basketball great Larry Sengstock is helping guide future development at the tourism hotspot as Noosa Council’s director of infrastructure services.

Mr Sengstock will oversee $47 million worth of capital works projects this financial year and is part of the council’s covid taskforce and disaster management group.

The former Basketball Australia chief executive, who was also the head of sport and operations for the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games, also has extensive experience in business and project delivery.

The Maryborough-born man said he was excited about his move to Noosa where his parents had lived for 40 years.

“In fact I started surfing at Main Beach Noosa in 1970 when there was wasn’t much more than a surf club and a few shops,” the 61-year-old said.

Basketballer Al Green tries to force his way past Larry Sengstock during a match between the Adelaide 36ers and the Brisbane Bullets in October, 1986.

“My parents have lived in the Noosa area for 40 years and I have always considered Noosa to be my home base.”

Mr Sengstock arrived at Noosa fresh from planning and delivering Victoria’s $57 million Gippsland Regional Aquatic Centre and the $1 million transformation of Traralgon Sports Stadium for Latrobe City Council.

“Having played a team sport at the top level, you appreciate that nothing is achieved as an individual and that’s how I approach my senior management roles,” he said.

“My focus has been to make a difference and ensure I create a positive legacy.”

Larry Sengstock pictured playing for the Australia Boomers in July, 1992.

Noosa Council CEO Brett de Chastel said Mr Sengstock’s experience and management style would be a huge asset to Council and the community.

“Larry has an impressive resume and is a quality person with extensive leadership experience,” Mr de Chastel said.

“His proven track record of delivering a diverse range of significant infrastructure projects will prove invaluable,” he said.

The four-time Olympian played more than 290 games for Australia, attended four World Championships, and was part of five National Basketball League championship winning teams.

A Basketball Australia Hall of Fame inductee, Mr Sengstock holds a Masters of Business Administration from Victoria University, Bachelor of Applied Science and Physical Education and a Diploma of Education.