Sports Star Awards

The Bendigo Sports Star Awards is an initiative that has been championing and acknowledging local sporting achievements and identities for over 57 years. The Awards have grown in stature since its inception, and it now features various trusts and awards such as the Cyril Michelsen and Maxine Crouch Trust Funds, the Hall of Fame Award, the Faith Leech Achievement Award, and the Healthiest School Awards. These trusts and awards aim to support and encourage young athletes to reach their potential and recognize the contributions made by athletes, coaches, and administrators to the sporting community. In 2023, the Bendigo Sports Star Hall of Fame inducted netballer Caitlin Thwaites, honoring her outstanding achievements and contributions to the local sporting community. Caitlin was surprised by her induction during the ceremony, having believed she was attending the event as a mentor. Caitlin's induction into the Hall of Fame is a testament to her hard work and dedication to her sport and community, and she joins the ranks of esteemed athletes, coaches, and administrators in the Hall of Fame at Red Energy Arena Bendigo.