Bendigo named as the Regional Home of Cobras

World-class hockey is headed to Central Victoria. In a major move for the sport, the Melbourne Cobras have officially named Bendigo as their ‘Regional Home’, committing to play a Hockey One home game in the city for the 2026 and 2027 seasons.

This move brings international standard hockey to the local community, ensuring that fans can witness both Men’s and Women’s elite competition without leaving the region.

“Securing Bendigo as the regional home for the Melbourne Cobras is a tremendous win for our community. With national broadcasts and global streaming showcasing our city, this partnership brings elite sport to our doorstep, new cultural connections, and exciting opportunities as a hockey regional development hub for young talent,” - City of Greater Bendigo Mayor Thomas Prince.

The partnership promises more than just local matchdays. By hosting the Melbourne Cobras, Bendigo will gain significant domestic and international visibility:

• National Broadcasts: Matches will be aired on 7Plus, bringing the Bendigo City Council into living rooms across Australia.
• Global Reach: International streaming via the Hockey One OTT platform will showcase the region to a global hockey audience.
• Brand Presence: The city will benefit from extensive digital exposure and physical branding across the Cobras’ platforms and matchday fence signage.

The Melbourne Cobras aim to establish Bendigo as a major regional development hub. Starting in 2027, Cobras will work with the city to host the Annual
Emerging Academy Challenge, featuring U17 teams from the Melbourne Cobras, HC Melbourne, and a visiting Australian franchise.

For the 2026 season, the Hockey Victoria academy program will test the waters with an exciting weekend of competition featuring:

• HC Melbourne Futures
• Opposition Hockey One Academy
• Additional Victorian or Interstate Academy

From 2027, Bendigo will look to lay the foundations to serve as the "Cobras Regional Academy Hub," specifically designed to nurture emerging South Asian and regional talent from across Central Victoria.

Beyond the pitch, the franchise is committed to grassroots growth. The Cobras have pledged an annual school visitation program, aiming to engage over 500 local students each year to inspire the next generation of regional athletes.

"Naming Bendigo as the Regional Home of the Cobras is a natural fit. We aren't just playing games in Central Victoria, we are building a pathway for talent and bringing the best of Australian hockey to one of the most passionate sporting communities in the state." - Andrew Skillern, Hockey Victoria CEO.

Media Contact:
Brad Vanderwert
General Manager Government Relations & Melbourne Cobras | Hockey Victoria 
Email: media@hockeyvictoria.org.au
P: 3 9448 2100