Thursday, July 31, 2025

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Bendigo Bank Park - How Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is Powering Local Sport

Sport plays a vital role with families in the Burdekin community and providing the appropriate facilities and resources is a constant challenge for local clubs.

For generations, rugby league has been the beating heart of the Burdekin sporting community. At the centre of this proud tradition stands the Burdekin Roosters – a club forged in 1994, but whose roots go back over a century in local league.

Over the years, the Roosters have grown from strength to strength, evolving into a vital part of community life. Today, with a new generation of players stepping up across both the men's and women's teams, the club continues to uphold its strong values on and off the field.

That sense of pride has been amplified with the recent naming of Bendigo Bank Park – a testament to the enduring support from Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr. “The sponsorship has had a great impact on the Roosters community,” says club spokesperson Alex Lennox. “It’s brought a sense of professionalism and awareness to just how much the bank gives back to the region each year.”

This five-year partnership isn’t just about naming rights – it’s helping secure the club’s future. As a not-for-profit organisation, the Roosters rely heavily on local sponsorship to survive and thrive. Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr’s backing provides critical stability, funding maintenance and operational costs for new amenities and lighting infrastructure – investments that benefit both senior and junior leagues.

“This partnership reflects a shared vision for the future,” says Alex. “It’s helping us modernise outdated infrastructure and ensure we can offer a strong development pathway for players of all ages.”

And there’s room for everyone to get involved. Whether you're interested in playing, volunteering, sponsoring, or simply cheering from the sidelines, the Roosters welcome all.
Senior Branch Manager for Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, Chantel Michielin, says their board felt that sporting fields and clubrooms become a second home for many families and the sponsorship of Bendigo Bank Park is a reinforcement of their commitment to recognise the value of sport.

“Sport plays a pivotal role in our community. A place where friendships are formed, skills are developed, and a love for the game is fostered”, says Chantel. “Our Community Bank values this connection and will continue to invest part of our profits back into sport in our region”

Catch the action at the final two home games of Burdekin Roosters this year at Bendigo Bank Park on August 9 and August 23. Come for the footy, stay for the community spirit.

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