Wurdi Baierr Stadium usage on the rise

TORQUAY’S Wurdi Baierr Stadium is celebrating high rates of visitation, becoming a hub of activity since its opening and a space where people come together.

Each week, the stadium is seeing at least 4,500 people through its doors and is estimated to soon hit 250,000 visits annually.

Open for an average of 14 hours a day during the week and 11 hours on weekends, the stadium’s booked hours have grown by 48 per between the 2021-22 to 2023-24 financial year, with bookings also up 45 percent.

The number of individual bookings for the stadium has also increased by 53 per cent.

Surf Coast Shire mayor Liz Pattison said the number of people using the stadium spoke volumes about its importance.

“It’s helping locals to live healthy and active lifestyles and contributing to our Council Plan goal to build health connected communities.

“As people continue to use the stadium, it not only enhances the local sports and fitness scene but also contributes to the social fabric of our community.”

Officially opened in 2021, named after the Wadawurrung words for ‘big gathering place,’ the $13.5 million stadium features four courts as well as meeting and multipurpose rooms.

The stadium offers a diverse range of sports and activities including pickleball, badminton, netball, basketball, kinder gym and more, creating a centre for all age groups and interests.

“Before the stadium was built, Surf Coast Shire locals may have had to drive into Geelong or other areas to participate in many of these activities,”

Cr Pattison said the wide range of activates on offer and long operating hours would ensure the stadium remains a gathering place for the community.

For more information, head to surfcoast.vic.gov.au