Wurdi Baierr Stadium is on track to host 250,000 visitors annually.
Surf Coast Shire said the Torquay stadium is drawing a minimum of 4500 people through its doors each week and has been open an average of 14 hours each weekday and 11 hours a day on weekends.
Since 2021-22 booked hours has grown by 48 percent and the number of bookings is up by 45 percent with the increased number of individual clients up by 53 percent.
Sports and activities on offer at the stadium including table tennis, pickleball, badminton, karate, netball, basketball, volleyball, fitness classes, little kickers, and kinder gym. These community-led activities are coordinated by more than a dozen groups, clubs, and associations, making the stadium a vibrant centre for all age groups and interests.
“Wurdi Baierr Stadium is not just a venue; it’s a dynamic space where our community comes together,” said Mayor Cr Liz Pattison.
“It’s named after the Wadawurrung words for ‘big gathering place’, which truly is what the stadium has become. The sheer number of people who use this facility every week speaks volumes about its importance to the Surf Coast Shire.
“It’s helping locals to live healthy and active lifestyles and contributing to our Council Plan goal to build health connected communities. 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 success of Wurdi Baierr was a testament to the community’s commitment to health, fitness, and social connection.
“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,” she said.
“The wide range of activities and long operating hours ensure that the stadium remains a central gathering place for our community.”
