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Teacher Games to return to Geelong

August 22, 2022 BY

Bellaire Primary School Teachers Maddy McDonald and Scott Canny with Mayor Peter Murrihy. Photo: MITCHELL DYE

THOUSANDS of teachers and education workers will make the trek to Geelong next month for the 25th anniversary of the Victorian Teachers’ Games.

Around 2,000 staffers are expected to participate in the Games running from Sunday, September 18 to Wednesday, September 21 and Bellaire Primary School teacher Maddy McDonald is one of them.

“The Games are a fun way to stay active and meet other teachers from across Victoria,” Ms McDonald said.

“It’s a great way to unwind from work and have some fun with friends in such a beautiful part of the world.”

More than 140 sporting, wellness and social events across the four-day event, including netball, lawn bowls, laser skirmish, dodgeball, archery, stand-up paddle boarding, an Amazing Race and more will be on offer for participants.

Geelong councillor Ron Nelson said the impact of the Games extends beyond the event itself, benefiting other industries such as hospitality.

“The Games are a great way for teachers to kickstart their September school holidays, so please stick around and enjoy everything there is to see and do in Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula,” Cr Nelson said.

“The average teacher is expected to stay three nights for the Games which is a big boost for our local accommodation sector.

“The Games began in Geelong in 1996 so it’s fitting that after a two-year break due to the pandemic, the Games are returning to the place where it all began.”

Geelong Mayor Peter Murrihy said the Games act as a chance for education workers to connect with one another.

“During the COVID-19 pandemic, Victoria’s teaching and support staff have gone to incredible lengths to help students keep learning,” Cr Murrihy said.

“It’s been a challenging time in the classroom, so this is a great opportunity to thank Victorian educators.

“The Games give school staff the opportunity to connect with their peers, unwind after a challenging couple of years, and be inspired to make physical activity a part of their lives.”

Last-minute registrations for the Games end on Friday, August 19.