Bendigo Sports Venues Receive Infrastructure Investments and New Facilities

Bendigo Stadium is undergoing major upgrades funded by the Regional Sports Infrastructure Program that include two new courts, refurbished existing courts, 200 lux lighting for outdoor netball courts, solar panels and a backup generator, with works expected to finish in late 2026.

Bendigo Stadium and Showgrounds Upgrades

Despite the cancellation of the 2026 Commonwealth Games, promised upgrades to Bendigo Stadium and the Bendigo Showgrounds have commenced, including a multipurpose pavilion at the Showgrounds and four NBL games scheduled at Bendigo Stadium over the next two seasons. These changes maintain momentum for local venues even after the larger event was withdrawn.

Mercy Junortoun Sporting Precinct Opening

The $25.9 million Mercy Junortoun Sporting Precinct has officially opened in Junortoun, featuring a two-court indoor stadium, junior and senior ovals with lights, a turf cricket wicket and a six-lane cricket training net facility available to community groups outside school hours. The precinct adds capacity for multiple codes in a single location on the city outskirts.

Additional Facility Support

Bendigo's Golden Square ice skating rink received a $100,000 interest-free loan from the City of Greater Bendigo council to cover debt and upgrade costs, with conditions including facility maintenance and a new financial plan. La Trobe University opened its new Bendigo Sports Centre, offering indoor and outdoor courts for netball, basketball, volleyball and badminton plus a gym, oval and group fitness studio, with a free trial period available until August 22. These steps provide targeted assistance to existing operators and a new university-based option for residents.

The combination of funded works at Bendigo Stadium, the completed Junortoun precinct and support measures at the Golden Square rink and La Trobe centre shows continued investment in local sporting infrastructure. Residents and clubs can check availability directly with each venue for current access details and any upcoming trial sessions.