On-court for flood relief

FLOOD-IMPACTED community members were treated to some sporting entertainment over the weekend, with Bendigo Spirit playing Perth Lynx.

The basketball game took place on Sunday at Red Energy Arena with more than 760 people attending, including Elmore, Rochester and Echuca residents, who were given free entry and transport.

Bendigo Spirit won the game by 19 points and general manager of operations David Ingham said its dual purpose made for a rewarding evening.

“The team played well and winning always helps, but I thought the crowd was really good. There was a great atmosphere in the building,” he said.

“Obviously there’s some people who are going through some really hard times out there so it was important for us to help those people and give them a bit of relief.

“Hopefully by coming to the game and being entertained, they were able to forget about the struggles they’re going through for an afternoon.

“The feedback we got was good and positive. I hope they all felt when they got home that it was a good break from everything.”

A basketball clinic was held for the specially invited guests, as well as a meet and greet with Bendigo Spirit players.

Fundraising initiatives raised $23,000 for the Bendigo Bank flood appeal throughout the event.

Mr Ingham said it was important to foster grassroots connections among the local businesses and organisations.

“It’s our community. We need to make sure we’re looking after our community. We want everyone to feel just like we do, that we’re a team and that we’re in this together,” he said.

“When someone in the community is in trouble, it’s important we dig deep to help them.”