Western Bulldogs extend Ballarat partnership

The Western Bulldogs have announced the extension of their partnership with Visit Victoria and the City of Ballarat for another three years, continuing a collaboration that began in 2017.

The renewed agreement ensures Mars Stadium will remain a key venue for Bulldogs’ home games, with the team set to face Port Adelaide in Round 8 on 3 May and the Adelaide Crows in Round 18 in mid-July next year. The partnership also includes an annual AFLW home game at the stadium, promoting regional tourism and attracting visitors to Victoria’s west.

The enhanced partnership will feature Visit Victoria branding on AFLW team apparel for the first time. It also focuses on boosting regional tourism, increasing sport participation, and supporting the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation programs, including the Sons and Daughters of the West health initiatives and the youth Leadership Project.

Bulldogs CEO Ameet Bains expressed his enthusiasm for the continued partnership.

“Ballarat remains entrenched as our home away from home,” Bains said. “The passion of our home crowd at Mars Stadium is undeniable, and we’re thrilled to see this partnership extend and grow.”

City of Ballarat Mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves highlighted the Bulldogs’ commitment to the region.

“Hosting elite matches at Mars Stadium provides enormous benefits, but the community development driven by the Bulldogs goes far beyond match day,” she said.

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos also welcomed the partnership extension.

“We’re bringing elite footy to Ballarat so people can experience it in their backyard while supporting local jobs and businesses,” Dimopoulos said.