The Origin Australian Diamonds are set to host South Africa in a thrilling three-match series this October, serving as a predecessor to the anticipated Constellation Cup.
The series commences at Bendigo Arena on Saturday, 4 October, with the first match scheduled to kick off at 7.30 pm AEST.
The announcement of the opening match was made at a media event in Bendigo, featuring notable figures such as Victoria’s Premier, Jacinta Allan, Bendigo City Council Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf, Netball Australia chief executive officer Stacey West, and Origin Australian Diamonds head coach Stacey Marinkovich.
Commenting on the venue, Premier Allan, said: “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.”
Expressing a similar sentiment, noting the positive impact of hosting elite netball events in the region, member for Bendigo West, Maree Edwards, added: “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.”
Underscoring the importance of regional venues like Bendigo as the team gears up for pivotal competitions ahead, head coach of the Origin Australian Diamonds, Stacey Marinkovich, noted: “It’s great to return to Bendigo, where the passion and enthusiasm of the local community create an incredible atmosphere.”
“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 the 2027 Netball World Cup in Sydney.
“Every match counts, and we’re excited to start that journey in Bendigo,” Marinkovich said.
Expressing enthusiasm for the return of the diamonds, Mayor of Greater Bendigo, Cr Andrea Metcalf, concluded: “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.
“Thanks to the Victorian Government, Netball Australia, and all involved in bringing this unmissable event to the heart of regional Victoria,” she stated.
This event is made possible through a partnership with the Victorian Government, alongside support from the City of Greater Bendigo.
Following their landmark series victory against South Africa in 2023—the first standalone Test series between the two nations on Australian soil in 18 years—the Diamonds aim to maintain their momentum.
Their return to Bendigo comes after last year’s resounding success at Red Energy Arena, where a sold-out crowd of 4,032 witnessed a commanding series win over England.
The South Africa Series will set the stage for the 2025 Constellation Cup, which is slated for Melbourne’s John Cain Arena on Friday, 17 October, followed by events at Qudos Bank Arena on Wednesday, 22 October, before shifting across the Tasman.
Details regarding the locations for the second and third matches in the South Africa Series will be revealed soon, alongside information on ticket sales.
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