Bendigo Schools Anchor Grassroots Athletics Pathways

High school students in Bendigo from Years 7 to 12 can apply for the select-entry Athlete Development Program that combines track and field training with regular classes at colleges including Bendigo Senior Secondary, Crusoe, Eaglehawk and Weeroona.

Pathways from School to Competition

Schools such as Catherine McAuley College and Bendigo Senior Secondary College enter teams in School Sport Victoria athletics events that begin at local carnivals and advance to regional and state finals. This structure gives students a clear route from school grounds to higher-level meets without leaving the region.

Venues and Participation Scale

Most local high school carnivals and training sessions take place at the Lar Birpa Athletics Complex in Flora Hill. The facility hosts events for more than 50 schools and 20,000 students each year, providing a shared base for both school and club athletes.

Club and State Results

Bendigo Senior Secondary College athletes collected six medals at the SSV State Athletics Finals, with gold medals in the 400 metres for the 16-year and 20-year age groups. Outside school hours the Bendigo Harriers club competes in the Athletics Victoria AVSL series from October to March, open to athletes aged 12 and older.

Students interested in the Athlete Development Program can seek application details through their current college. Those looking to continue beyond school competition can contact the Bendigo Harriers for entry into the summer AVSL rounds.