The City of Greater Bendigo and Bendigo Stadium Ltd have unveiled the final designs for a major $16.5 million extension to the Bendigo Stadium and will lodge a planning permit application for the project in the near future.
Greater Bendigo City Council Mayor Councillor Peter Cox said the expansion would transform Bendigo Stadium into one of regional Victoria’s best multi-purpose stadium and events centres and provide the facilities needed by a fast growing city.
“The project aims to include a three court/show court expansion, an upgrade of the existing 12 outdoor netball courts and construction of spectator seating to cater for up to 4,000 people at concerts and sporting events.”
“The Bendigo Stadium is an important regional asset and this expansion is a partnership between Bendigo Stadium Ltd, the City of Greater Bendigo and the Victorian State Government.”
Bendigo Stadium Ltd Chair Brendon Goddard said the expansion is exciting and will encourage further participation in grassroots sport and help the City of Greater Bendigo to continue to attract major events that contribute to the local economy.
“The stadium is home to the Bendigo Spirit and the Bendigo Braves and Lady Braves, while the current grassroots basketball season has more than 3,500 registered participants across 410 teams there is a waiting list for use of the courts for training and games that can’t be accommodated at present.
“Other users include over 500 registered volleyball players, a daytime basketball competition with 50 players, two weekly netball competitions that attract 290 competitors and the Golden City Netball Association which runs a large outdoor competition and training for 1,400 members.
“The Stadium also caters for a range of significant local and international-standard conventions and events.
“Up to 5,000 participants use the stadium each week.”
The $16.5 million expansion project will be funded with $10 million from Bendigo Stadium Ltd, $5 million from the State Government and $1.5 million, and in-kind support, from the City of Greater Bendigo.
