Rodney Baker: Dedication and Financial Excellence in Basketball
Rod Baker has played a crucial role in the financial stability and success of Brisbane Basketball since his involvement began. As Treasurer and Chairman of the Finance Committee, he has applied his extensive accounting expertise to strengthen the association’s operations, earning continuous recognition from the Board. His financial reports have set a new benchmark for accuracy and excellence, ensuring Brisbane Basketball’s long-term sustainability.
Rod’s influence extends beyond financial management—his quiet yet unwavering commitment has been instrumental, particularly during the stadium refurbishment. His contributions fully qualified him for Life Membership with BBI.
Born 12th December 1955, he married Ruth in 1989, and they have three sons, (Matthew, Nicholas, and Adam) all of them playing Basketball for the Dragons.
Rod completed a Bachelor of Business (Accounting) and in 1993 along with Ruth started an Accounting Practice after a career with several Accounting Firms. The practice Rod Baker & Co, where his clients included several well-known basketball identities was sold in December 2018.
Rod’s journey in basketball began in 1969, playing U14 for Oakleigh Basketball Club at Crosby Park playing through the junior ages & into the Senior Grades. His involvement also included coaching both junior & senior Dragon’s teams. Over the years, he has remained deeply engaged, serving on various committees including Treasurer & President during which time he pioneered the name change to North Brisbane Basketball Club.
Rod was awarded Life Membership of West Mitchelton (formerly Oakleigh) in 1985.
In 1984 his professional expertise in finance led him to serve as Financial Advisor to the Brisbane Basketball Association during BBI’s ownership of the Brisbane Bullets, a task he undertook for 3 or 4 years.
In the late 1990”s he served as Financial Director for Queensland Basketball for 2 years.
In 2024 Rod was awarded the Basketball Queensland 50 Years Diamond Service Award
Since joining the Brisbane Basketball Management Committee in 2013, Rod has continued his invaluable work as Treasurer and Chairman of the Finance Committee. Specific to Rod’s role as Treasurer some of what he has and continues to oversee include:
* Term Deposits – review current holding and determine future terms.
* Bonds – manage the overall strategy around acquiring and releasing bonds
* Cashflow – driving the process for reviewing the cashflow during the redevelopment period.
* Monthly Financial Reporting – monthly review and recommendations around the current performance.
* Budget – Significant support in the construction of the budget.
* Future Facilities – commencing the project to develop financial modelling around future facilities (that the association either own or lease).
His mentorship and guidance to the GM have been invaluable and have allowed him to develop his financial management practices.
Rod’s financial guidance has ensured the association’s strong position, making him a deserving candidate for prestigious recognition.
With over 55 years of service to basketball, his dedication, leadership, and financial acumen have left an indelible mark on Basketball.
Rod was awarded Life Membership of Brisbane Basketball Inc. in 2025.
