Bendigo High Schools Focus on Athletics Season with ADP and Regional Carnivals

Over 50 schools and 20,000 students in the Bendigo region utilize the Lar Birpa Athletics Complex annually for school sporting carnivals and training. This established usage sets the foundation for the upcoming high school athletics season centered on track and field development.

Athlete Development Program Expands Across Colleges

Local secondary students in Years 7-12 can apply for the select-entry Athlete Development Program (ADP), which integrates classroom learning with elite coaching in Athletics (Track & Field) and other sports. The ADP is now hosted across multiple Bendigo colleges including Crusoe College, Eaglehawk Secondary College, Weeroona College Bendigo, and Bendigo Senior Secondary College. These sites provide structured pathways that combine academic schedules with specialized athletic training for eligible participants.

Bendigo Harriers and Regional Carnivals Offer Competition Pathways

Bendigo Harriers Athletics Club offers high school-aged athletics (ages 12+) competing in the Athletics Victoria summer season (October-March) with events ranging from sprints to field disciplines like pole vault and javelin. Local high schools such as Bendigo Senior Secondary College and Catherine McAuley College regularly compete in regional carnivals like the Sandhurst Athletics Carnival, with winners advancing to Loddon Mallee Region finals. These competitions provide direct progression routes for students involved in both the ADP and club programs.

The scale of participation at the Lar Birpa Athletics Complex supports consistent access to facilities for training and carnivals. Students from the listed colleges gain coordinated opportunities through the ADP while Bendigo Harriers extends options into the full Athletics Victoria summer season. Schools including Bendigo Senior Secondary College and Catherine McAuley College maintain involvement in the Sandhurst Athletics Carnival as a key regional step.

Season Outlook for Local Athletes

Applications for the ADP remain open to Years 7-12 students seeking integrated coaching alongside schoolwork. Participation through Bendigo Harriers allows ages 12 and older to enter the October-March Athletics Victoria schedule. Schools continue regular entries into the Sandhurst Athletics Carnival for advancement to Loddon Mallee Region finals. Interested students can review program details through the participating colleges and the Bendigo Harriers Athletics Club.