Basketball Australia congratulates Dr Peter Harcourt AM on his induction into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame, a fitting recognition of a lifetime dedicated to sport, athlete wellbeing, and medical leadership at the highest level.
Recognised as a General Member for his outstanding contribution across more than four decades, Dr Harcourt joins an illustrious list of Australian sporting legends and changemakers, becoming one of just a handful of medical professionals to receive this honour.
A central figure in Australian basketball’s medical landscape, Dr Harcourt has provided decades of care, guidance and leadership through his work with Basketball Australia, the National Basketball League, and FIBA.
His influence extends well beyond the basketball court, with significant roles across major sporting organisations including the AFL, International Cricket Council, Commonwealth Games Federation, Victorian Institute of Sport, and World Anti-Doping Agency.
“Without a doubt the most rewarding part of my work in sport over 40 years has been the wonderful people I have been able to work with – athletes, coaches, administrators and sports medicine colleagues,” Dr Harcourt said.
Reflecting on his remarkable journey, he shared one of his most memorable moments in Australian sport while serving as Chief Medical Officer at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.
“One of the most spine-tingling memories was at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, when Andrew Gaze informed the Boomers of his appointment as the flag bearer – he had tears in his eyes and so did we all.
“Then, at the Closing Ceremony, as the flame went out, an F-111 jet roared overhead with its afterburner blazing – it was like the Olympic flame shooting across the sky. Unforgettable.”
Dr Harcourt will be formally inducted alongside fellow members of the Class of 2025 at the Sport Australia Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Gala Dinner, held at Crown Palladium, Melbourne, on Monday, November 17.
