Wurdi Baierr Stadium in Torquay is being embraced by community members, drawing a minimum 4,500 people through its doors each week and will soon burst through to hosting 250,000 visits annually.
Since its opening, the stadium has become a bustling hub of activity, open an average of 14 hours each weekday and 11 hours a day on weekends. Since 2021-22 booked hours has grown by 48% and the number of bookings is up by 45% with the increased number of individual clients up by 53%.
The stadium has a diverse range of sports and activities on offer including table tennis, pickleball, badminton, karate, netball, basketball, volleyball, fitness classes, little kickers, and kinder gym. These community-led activities are coordinated by over 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 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 heathy 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 is a testament to the community’s commitment to health, fitness, and social connection. Whether it’s children participating in kinder gym, adults attending fitness classes, or local teams competing in various sports, Wurdi Baierr Stadium offers something for everyone.
“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. The wide range of activities and long operating hours ensure that the stadium remains a central gathering place for our community,” Cr Pattison concluded.
