Bendigo Athletics Participation Figures Reflect Community Fitness Habits

The Lar Birpa Athletics Complex records annual use by more than 50 schools and 20,000 students for carnivals and training sessions. This level of activity provides a measurable indicator of local engagement with athletics and broader fitness routines across Bendigo.

Facility Usage Patterns

Bendigo Senior Secondary College students participate in the Athlete Development Program, which incorporates track and field alongside other sports. The college's athletes regularly advance to Loddon Mallee Region finals and School Sport Victoria state athletics finals, with recent results including medals in the 400m, javelin and triple jump events. Four clubs operate in the area to support these participants: Bendigo Harriers, Eaglehawk, South Bendigo and Bendigo University Athletics Club.

Supporting Infrastructure

Bendigo Stadium is receiving upgrades that include two new courts, refurbished courts 9 and 10, and 200 lux lighting for 12 outdoor netball courts under the Regional Sports Infrastructure Program. Works started in September 2025 and are scheduled for completion in late 2026. The City of Greater Bendigo has also extended a $100,000 interest-free loan to the Golden Square ice rink to support continued operations.

New Precinct Additions

The Mercy Junortoun Sporting Precinct in Junortoun opened with two junior ovals, a senior oval fitted with lights and scoreboard, a two-court indoor stadium and a six-lane cricket training net facility. Bendigo Stadium is also scheduled to host four NBL games over the next two seasons, including Melbourne United matches against the Cairns Taipans and Brisbane Bullets in January 2026.

Next Steps for Participants

Residents seeking to join athletics programs can contact Athletics Bendigo for details on the AVSL summer competition open to athletes aged 12 and over. School groups continue to book sessions at the Lar Birpa Athletics Complex through established channels.