The Geelong Hockey Association says the cancellation of the 2026 Commonwealth Games will negatively impact the sport locally.
The local sporting group says it has been left with a bill for urgent works of $750,000 that are needed to upgrade to one of its Stead Park pitches and other facilities.
Association Vice-President Alan Climpson addressed a senate committee hearing in Bendigo on Tuesday.
“We have to begin to plan the upgrade that we’d already planned to ensure our competition in Geelong remains viable,” he said.
“These facilities accommodate games being played at local level as well as supporting teams in the Hockey Victoria Melbourne-based competition in winter as well as running a summer competition.
“(these facilities) have now become unsafe to use which require immediate action.”
He also told the hearing he had not heard from local MPs following the announcement to cancel the 2026 event, and heard about the cancellation on the news.
The public hearing also heard from the Committee for Ballarat and long-distance running champion Steve Moneghetti.
Meantime, Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan has confirmed he has been invited to a regional forum next month following the cancellation of the Games.
It is understood Victorian Minister Harriet Shing will meet with stakeholders.
Cr Sullivan says he is looking forward to receiving more detail on what is being planned for local infrastructure and contribute to the conversation on behalf of the city.
