When the contentious issue of the outdated Shepparton Sports Stadium is raised, fellow Victorian regional hub Bendigo is often mentioned.
‘Look at what Bendigo has got compared to us.’
So, let’s do exactly that.
Shepparton is about half the size of Bendigo, with a population of more than 50,000 compared to Bendigo’s 100,000.
Both stadiums cater to the wider region.
Greater Shepparton’s population is almost 70,000 and Greater Bendigo’s is about 124,000.
Let’s see if that disparity matches up in the quality of facilities.
The focal point of basketball in Shepparton is undeniably the Shepparton Sports Stadium, but other courts are used due to capacity issues.
Bendigo’s basketball centre is the modern and massive Red Energy Arena.
As the home court for local basketball enthusiasts, Shepparton’s Shepparton Sports Stadium provides seating for 400 spectators.
The arrangement is simple, comprising high-school-style bleacher seats that, while functional, present limitations in terms of comfort and diversity.
On any given Big V game, Shepparton Gators supporters pack out the grandstand, standing or sitting along the railings and stairs or grouped up on the other side of the court, where there is little temporary seating.
In contrast, Bendigo’s Red Energy Arena transforms the spectator experience with a substantial capacity of 4000 seats.
This includes a VIP mezzanine boasting 300 seats, showcasing a comprehensive and comfortable seating set-up with pull-out options surrounding the show court.
For those playing along at home, that’s more than 10 times as much capacity.
Moving beyond the sheer number of seats, the facilities at each venue continue to contrast each other.
Shepparton Sports Stadium has four courts, so it is unable to cater to all players.
The venue also houses table tennis facilities and a canteen.
A very basic set-up.
On the other side of this comparison, Bendigo’s Red Energy Arena emerges as a holistic sports facility boasting 10 courts.
This expansive set-up goes beyond basketball, offering a restaurant, sports bar and cafe, attracting non-athletes to the facility and operating as a source of revenue for local businesses.
The diversity of facilities provides a more comprehensive and enriching experience for players and fans.
Shepparton’s last major upgrade to its sports infrastructure was in 1992, introducing two new courts and a multi-purpose room.
While this was undoubtedly a substantial enhancement at the time, Shepparton quickly outgrew this facility and started advocating for an upgrade in the early 2000s.
In stark contrast, Bendigo’s commitment to maintaining state-of-the-art facilities is evident in its most recent upgrade in 2019.
This initiative included installing new airconditioning and heating systems, a revamped main court and improved seating.
The more recent upgrades reflect a dedication to modern standards and contribute to the overall appeal and functionality of the venue.
With that being said, Bendigo’s arena was already much more advanced than Shepparton’s.
Shepparton and Bendigo are home to formidable teams but at different levels.
Shepparton proudly hosts the Shepparton Gators, a team that competes in the Big V one tier below NBL1.
They are the reigning division one champions.
However, despite the city’s basketball prowess, Shepparton faces challenges in attracting significant events that could bring additional revenue and attention to the region.
Bendigo stands out with the Bendigo Braves, an NBL1 team.
The city’s well-equipped Red Energy Arena not only supports local basketball events but also draws a diverse array of activities, including netball and NBL games.
This diversity contributes significantly to the local economy, showcasing the broader impact of a well-equipped venue.
Bendigo’s Red Energy Arena, with its recent upgrades and capacity to host a variety of events, showcases the potential that a modern sports facility could unlock for a region.
Shepparton has a long way to go to catch up, but it’s got to start, or else it will be left in the dust.
Show your support for our campaign by signing our petition www.change.org/p/upgrade-the-shepparton-sports-stadium
Stand For Our Stadium: The story so far
Or reach out to us and have your say:
Contact details
News journalist Jay Bryce
5820 3195
@jaybrycenews on Instagram
Or The News desk at:
5831 2312