Stars shine bright on local sport’s night of nights

THE fifty-eighth annual Bendigo Sports Star Awards were held at the All Seasons Resort last Friday Night with three-hundred and fifty people in attendance for the first capacity crowd since COVID-19 lead to cancelled or capped events.

The awards night saw the region’s best athletes recognised for their achievements over the past 12-months.

As well as the coverted Sports Star of the Year, the night included two young athletes receiving scholarships, as well as somebody being inducted to the Hall of Fame before the Sports Star of the Year was announced at the end of the night.

There were also a number of other awards and monthly award winners recognised on the evening.

Bendigo Sports Star chair Sam Daykin said he was rapt with how the night, and the awards, unfolded.

“Total success tonight,” he said. “Over 300 people in the room, we couldn’t ask for anything better, it has been a great night.”

Mr Daykin said the awards night was important for a large number of people right across the region.

“It’s great for the athletes getting the recognition that they deserve,” he said. “But also, for the community who get to come celebrate them. It’s great for both parties.”

The whole night was positive Mr Daykin said, but he did have a highlight.

“Caitlin’s surprised look when she was inducted into the Hall of Fame was amazing,” he said.