Athlete Development Program Supports High School Athletics in Bendigo

The Athlete Development Program provides elite coaching in athletics for Years 7 to 12 students at five Bendigo colleges.

Program Reach Across Local Colleges

This program operates as a select-entry initiative that links high school athletes with specialised track and field coaching. Bendigo Senior Secondary College takes part in the School Sport Victoria Sandhurst Division athletics calendar, where winners advance to Loddon Mallee Region finals. Four athletics clubs serve the Bendigo area, and Bendigo Harriers accepts members aged 12 and older who compete in the Athletics Victoria AVSL series between October and March.

Facilities and Carnivals in Flora Hill

School carnivals including the Sandhurst Athletics Carnival occur at the Bendigo Regional Athletics Complex in Flora Hill. Events there cover sprints, hurdles and jumps. Over 50 schools and 20,000 students in Bendigo use the Lar Birpa Athletics Complex each year for carnivals and training sessions.

Pathways for Students

The Athlete Development Program supplies structured support that prepares participants for school-based competition. Students at participating colleges gain access to coaching that aligns with the Sandhurst Division schedule and regional progression. The presence of four clubs in the area, including Bendigo Harriers, offers additional avenues for athletes once they complete secondary schooling.

Local schools continue to schedule carnivals at the Flora Hill venue while the Athlete Development Program maintains its select-entry model across the five colleges. Athletes can follow the established route from school events through to regional finals and club competition.