Few would be more familiar with the hallowed (synthetic) turf of Stead Park than Claire Barnes.

The 774-game hockey veteran is thrilled her home ground will be showcased to the world as one of the venues for the 2026 Commonwealth Games.  

“It was a delightful surprise. Everybody’s just really excited about it and can’t wait to see top class hockey played literally in our backyard,” Claire said. 

And while the prospect of brushing shoulders with world class athletes has the locals talking, Claire has an eye to the future and can see the difference that the games will bring to her hometown for generations to come. 

“We’re looking forward to what that new infrastructure might bring and what benefits that might bring for the next 20 – 30 years.” 

Former President of the Geelong Hockey Association, Peter Stuart, agrees and said the community interest in Stead Park being announced as a host venue has been “exhilarating.”

“The thought of having top level hockey here in Geelong is pretty exciting and of what that might be able to do for us as a sport, to lift our profile in the community is fantastic news,” Peter said.

“The Commonwealth Games will just be the start of this as far as we’re concerned. We want to see high level teams come and use this facility.

“We’ll be able to show our young players and school children what top level sport is all about. It provides us with such a legacy. We will look forward to what will be happening in 10 to 15 years from the Games, that’s where we’re looking.”

Having been the home of hockey in Geelong since the 1960s, the venue has two synthetic pitches, seating for around 150 spectators and standing room for up to 1,000.

“It’s just a phenomenal opportunity.”