The Allan Labor Government is giving Bendigo's players, fans and grassroots and elite sporting clubs the facilities they need to succeed - with big upgrades to bring more Victorians closer to the action.
Premier Jacinta Allan and Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards today visited Bendigo Stadium to announce the Bendigo Sports Package, which is delivering three projects across the region as part of the Labor Government's Regional Sports Infrastructure Program.
Bendigo Stadium is one of 15 facilities across the state receiving upgrades, with an expansion that includes a new two-court annex and upgrades to two existing courts.
As the home of the WNBL Bendigo Spirit and NBL1 Bendigo Braves, this landmark investment will attract even more epic indoor sporting events to Bendigo - boosting local jobs, businesses, and the region's economy.
The project will also upgrade lighting at the outdoor netball courts, while new solar panels and improvements to the car park and accessibility will ensure local clubs have the facilities they need to play year-round.
The Bendigo Sports Package is also delivering important upgrades at some of Bendigo's heritage sporting clubs - including the historic Bendigo Bowls Club and Bendigo Croquet Club, which will benefit from four refurbished bowls greens and two refurbished croquet greens, alongside upgrades to the venue's iconic clubhouse.
A new multipurpose pavilion at Bendigo Showgrounds will draw visitors from far and wide to Bendigo. A redevelopment of the arena - plus upgrades to all four entrances and perimeter fencing - will see the Showgrounds remain a prime venue for sporting, cultural and agricultural events for years to come.
These projects will help increase sports participation across Bendigo and bring more elite sport to regional Victoria, supporting local businesses and creating more local jobs.
Further updates on the projects will be provided in the coming months, with the first works to kick off in early 2025. For more information on the Regional Sports Infrastructure Program, visit sport.vic.gov.au.
As stated by Premier Jacinta Allan
"Local sports clubs are the heart and soul of regional communities - and in Bendigo, they're our Spirit, too."
As stated by Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence
"Regional clubs are the grassroots homes for our next generation of sporting champions, and this is about giving local players, fans and clubs the facilities they need to succeed for many years to come."
As stated by Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards
"Local sport is a part of life in Bendigo - we're so proud to be making sure our local sporting clubs have the best facilities so the whole community can get involved."
