Bloods, Hawks to battle under lights on Anzac Day

AFTER an absence last season, Anzac Day football will make a rousing return to the Bendigo Football Netball League calendar in 2025.

Expected big improvers South Bendigo and Eaglehawk will meet in standalone senior football and A-grade netball clashes under lights at the QEO on 25 April as part of round three.

The blockbuster clash will mark a one-off return to their former home ground as the host side for the Bloods, who have called Harry Trott Oval home since 2023.

The clash against the Hawks was originally scheduled to be played at Harry Trott Oval.South Bendigo will partner with the Bendigo RSL on the day to promote the Anzac spirit of courage, sacrifice, endurance and mateship, and to raise funds and support for veterans and their families.

South Bendigo FNC general manager Rick Townsend said the Bloods were grateful to be able to play on the day and for the opportunity to support the RSL.

“This is a great opportunity to showcase the game on a day that means a lot to the Bendigo community, however, it’s vital that we make sure the day is given the respect it deserves,” he said.

“It’s not just a few games of football and netball. It’s about much more than that.”

Bendigo RSL president Glenn Ludeman said the veteran community saw Anzac Day until lunchtime as a time to commemorate those that have served and fallen in defence of their nation.

“After midday, it’s important that events on Anzac Day recognise our nation’s 103,021 war dead, while continuing to capture the essence of our veterans and their families who have sacrificed so much,” he said.

“Partnering with the South Bendigo FNC and the BFNL for this event ensures that the essence of Anzac Day won’t get lost.”

BFNL manager Tom King said the league was rapt to see Anzac Day football back on the fixture, especially in prime time under the QEO’s lights.

“South was keen to have it at Harry Trott, but the lights wouldn’t accommodate,” he said.

“It took a lot of work with the council and whatnot to get it across the line.

“Most importantly, South have partnered with the RSL, so it will be a big fundraising day.

“The under-18s footy has been earmarked for 2.20pm and the seniors and A-grade netball are at 6.30pm.”

Gates on Anzac Day will open at 1pm.

The action will kick off with the under-18 football at 2.20pm before both Clubs pause for an Anzac Day observance at 6pm.

The Anzac clash will be one of the undoubted highlights of the early part of the fixture, which includes a major emphasis on Good Friday football.

All four round two matches will be played on the Friday of the Easter long weekend on 18 April. Gisborne will host South Bendigo at Gardiner Reserve, Eaglehawk and Kangaroo Flat meet at Canterbury Park, Castlemaine and Golden Square clash at Camp Reserve, and Strathfieldsaye will take on Sandhurst at Tannery Lane.

The BFNL will hold its official season launch on 4 April at Bendigo Mazda. More sport from page 25.