Facilities and Infrastructure: The Backbone of Youth Sport in Bendigo

Bendigo has 27 sports facilities, including ovals, courts, and pitches, that are used by over 10,000 young athletes every week.

The recent performances of the Wallabies and Socceroos have highlighted the importance of investing in grassroots sport development. With many young athletes in Bendigo looking to follow in the footsteps of their national heroes, it is crucial that the city has the facilities and infrastructure to support their growth. The City of Greater Bendigo has recognised this need and has been working to upgrade and expand its sports facilities. This includes the redevelopment of the Bendigo Stadium on Marong Road and the construction of new sports pavilions at the Harry Trott Oval in Kennington.

Local Facilities and Initiatives

The Bendigo Basketball Association, based at the Bendigo Stadium, has seen a significant increase in junior participation over the past year, with over 500 children aged between 5 and 12 taking part in its programs. Similarly, the Bendigo Football Netball League has reported a surge in interest from young players, with many of its clubs, such as the Strathfieldsaye Storm and the Eaglehawk Football Netball Club, offering junior development programs. The Crusoe College sports centre on Simpson Street is another popular venue, hosting a range of sports including soccer, tennis, and athletics.

According to data from the City of Greater Bendigo, the number of young people participating in sport in the city has increased by 15% over the past two years, with 72% of children aged between 5 and 14 taking part in some form of organised sport. The cost of using these facilities can be a barrier for some families, with the average cost of hiring a sports court in Bendigo ranging from $30 to $50 per hour. However, many clubs and organisations offer subsidised rates or scholarships to help make sport more accessible. For example, the Bendigo Sports Centre on Holcombe Street offers a discounted rate of $20 per hour for junior sports teams.

As the city continues to grow and develop, it is essential that its sports facilities and infrastructure keep pace. The City of Greater Bendigo has committed to investing $1.2 million in sports facility upgrades over the next 12 months, including the installation of new lighting at the Weeroona Oval in White Hills and the construction of a new sports pavilion at the Epsom Huntly Recreation Reserve. With the support of local government, clubs, and organisations, Bendigo is well-placed to continue producing talented young athletes and providing them with the facilities and infrastructure they need to succeed.