About

Our History & Future Vision

Our Legacy: Over Six Decades of Community & Sport

Bell Park Sport and Recreation Club was established in 1958, following a 1957 resolution by the Bell Park Progress Association, recognising the need for sporting facilities in the rapidly growing community.

• The Early Years (1958-1970s)
  The club’s origins lie in football, with the first team playing in borrowed black and white striped jumpers. In 1959, Bell Park adopted its first official colours—bottle green with a white "V"—before transitioning in 1980 to the green and white vertical stripes we proudly wear today.

• Expanding into a Multi-Sport Club (1970s-2000s)
  In 1972/73, a cricket section was introduced to keep footballers active in the off-season, marking the beginning of Bell Park's growth into a multi-sport organisation. By 2000, the Geelong Football League incorporated netball, adding a new dimension to the club and strengthening our commitment to inclusive sporting opportunities.

• Establishing a Unified Sporting Community (1980s-Present)
  Recognising the need to bring multiple sporting disciplines under one banner, Bell Park Sport & Recreation Club was formed in 1984. This structure allowed us to better coordinate resources, grow our membership, and support the development of all athletes. In 1987, we became an Incorporated Association, further securing our future.

From our grassroots beginnings to becoming a powerhouse in the Geelong sporting community, Bell Park has continued to evolve while maintaining our strong sense of tradition, pride, and unity.

Our Future: A Vision for Growth & Success

Bell Park Sport and Recreation Club is more than just a club—it’s a community hub where families, players, and supporters come together to celebrate sport, camaraderie, and success. As we move forward, our focus is on strengthening our teams, enhancing our facilities, and growing our membership.

Key Areas of Focus for the Future:

✅ Developing Stronger Teams & Pathways

• Continuing to invest in junior development across AFL, netball, and cricket to ensure future generations of True Dragons thrive.
• Expanding our all-abilities programs to provide inclusive sporting opportunities for people of all skill levels.
• Strengthening senior and representative teams to maintain a competitive edge in the Geelong Football Netball League (GFNL) and Geelong Cricket Association (GCA).

✅ Upgrading Our Facilities

• Modernising clubrooms, social spaces, and training facilities to enhance the player and supporter experience.
• Improving ground infrastructure, including lighting and playing surfaces, to support year-round activity.
• Exploring opportunities for grant funding and partnerships to drive facility improvements.

✅ Expanding Membership & Community Engagement

• Launching new social membership packages, including the "True Dragon" membership, to provide benefits to all supporters.
• Transitioning to a digital membership system for streamlined access and engagement.
• Strengthening ties with local businesses and the wider community to increase sponsorship opportunities.

✅ Ensuring Financial Sustainability & Growth

• Expanding fundraising efforts through club events, sponsorships, and strategic partnerships.
• Exploring alternative revenue streams, including venue hire and club merchandise.
• Strengthening our grant application process to secure external funding for infrastructure and programs.

✅ Fostering a Strong, Inclusive Club Culture

• Promoting leadership and volunteer programs to support club operations and succession planning.
• Encouraging a welcoming, family-friendly environment where everyone, from players to supporters, feels valued.
• Continuing to honour our rich history while embracing modern opportunities to grow.

Be Part of Our Future

With a proud past and a bold future, Bell Park Sport and Recreation Club is committed to delivering success on and off the field. Whether you’re a player, coach, volunteer, or supporter, there’s a place for you at Bell Park.