Time to bid for Comm Games works

AHEAD of the 2026 Regional Victorian Commonwealth Games, a State Government advance tender notice has been released for the Mars Stadium construction contract.

The project will include the installation of a new athletics track, a permanent seating expansion of 5000 chairs, and improved all-abilities access.

“The ATN for main works at Eureka Stadium includes civil and earthworks, construction of athletics tracks, carparking, sports lighting and associated amenities,” a statement from the State Government said.

“It will be followed by an expression of interest process opening in May 2023.”

Worth $150 million, the aim of the upgrade is not just to cater to Commonwealth Games spectators, but to provide an improved experience for users of the sporting venue into the future, beyond 2026.

“For the Commonwealth Games, additional temporary seats will be installed as well as a competition standard track on the existing playing field,” the statement said.

Minister for Commonwealth Games Legacy Harriet Shing said Mars Stadium will be world-class.

“We’re investing in… infrastructure that will allow Ballarat to be host to some of the Commonwealth’s best athletes, driving economic growth and an enduring legacy of accessible, inclusive and fit-for-purpose housing and community infrastructure,” she said.

The works are not just about setting a stage for the Commonwealth Games for Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison.

“The improvements will benefit our community for decades to follow,” she said.

Minister for Commonwealth Games delivery Jacinta Allan said the project will generate many local jobs and put billions of dollars into the state’s economy.

“This is a unique opportunity for the construction industry to get involved in the delivery of the venue,” she said.