Showgrounds, stadium renos begin design phase

PLANNING for upgrades to the Bendigo Showgrounds and Bendigo Stadium are underway after the appointment of urban planning and design firm City Collective as principal design consultants for both projects.

As part of the firm’s pitch for the tenders, it is said to have demonstrated a strong commitment to ensuring the projects are “grounded in the local community.”

City Collective has already engaged Bendigo-based RMG Civil & Structural Engineers and Trident Building Surveyors as sub-consultants, and has pledged to use locally sourced products and materials and employ local graduates.

The works are being funded by the Victorian Government’s Bendigo Sports Package, announced in April this year after the shock cancellation of the 2026 Victorian Commonwealth Games in July 2023.

Bendigo Showgrounds will receive a new multipurpose pavilion, a redeveloped arena and improved entrances and fencing. Two existing courts at Bendigo Stadium will receive a makeover and a new two-court annex will be constructed.

Solar panels, a backup generator and new lighting to the outdoor netball courts will also be installed. Car park and accessibility improvements are expected too.

Civic Infrastructure group head at Development Victoria Hannah Clement said the start of the design phase is an exciting step in delivering the upgraded sporting and events venues for Bendigo.

“Upgrading these two venues will support the continued growth of the Bendigo region, boosting local jobs and businesses during the projects’ delivery,” she said.

City Collective’s other clients past and present include several AFL clubs, Netball SA and the Australian Golf Centre.