The Origin Australian Diamonds will host South Africa in a three-match series this October ahead of the Constellation Cup.
The series will open at Bendigo Arena on Saturday, 4 October at 7.30pm AEST, in partnership with the Victorian Government through Visit Victoria, and supported by City of Greater Bendigo.
After their historic 2023 series win over South Africa - the first standalone Test series between the two nations in Australia in 18 years - the Origin Australian Diamonds will look to carry that momentum forward.
They return to Bendigo following last year’s sell-out at Red Energy Arena, where 4,032 fans witnessed a decisive series victory over England.
Victoria’s Premier, Jacinta Allan, joined Bendigo City Council Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf, Netball Australia Chief Executive Officer Stacey West, and Origin Australian Diamonds Head Coach Stacey Marinkovich at a media call in Bendigo today to announce the opening match of the series.
"Victoria is Australia’s major events and sporting capital, with events like this driving economic growth, supporting local businesses and creating jobs while showcasing the best of Bendigo to audiences across the nation and beyond," said Premier Jacinta Allan.
“With the Super Netball Grand Final and Constellation Cup also on the way, it’s a fantastic time to be a netball fan in Victoria."
Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards, echoed the premier.
“This is a big win for Bendigo – hosting the world’s best netballers will boost local businesses, fill our hotels and cafes, and inspire the next generation of netball stars across our region.”
Origin Australian Diamonds Head Coach Stacey Marinkovich emphasised the importance of playing in regional areas like Bendigo as the team prepares for two pivotal years of competition.
“It’s great to return to Bendigo, where the passion and enthusiasm of the local community create an incredible atmosphere,” she said.
"This series against South Africa is a key part of our preparation as we build toward major campaigns like the Constellation Cup and, looking ahead, the 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games and 2027 Netball World Cup in Sydney. Every match counts and we’re excited to start that journey in Bendigo.”
Bendigo’s Greater City Mayor C Andrea Metcalf, is thrilled to have the Diamonds return to Bendigo.
“We’re absolutely delighted to welcome the Origin Australian Diamonds back to Bendigo. There’s nothing quite like the buzz of international netball and seeing world-class athletes take the court in our own backyard," she said.
“This is a golden opportunity for our local community – especially our budding young players – to be inspired by the very best.
“Thanks to the Victorian Government, Netball Australia and all involved in bringing this unmissable event to the heart of regional Victoria.”
The South Africa Series will lead into the 2025 Constellation Cup, scheduled for Melbourne’s John Cain Arena on Friday, 17 October, and Qudos Bank Arena on Wednesday, 22 October, before the rivalry crosses the Tasman.
The location of the second and third South Africa Series match will be announced shortly. Further information regarding ticket sales will also be announced soon.
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