The Western Bulldogs and Mars Wrigley have extended their partnership for another three years, ensuring Ballarat’s Mars Stadium retains its name until at least the end of 2027.
The agreement, in collaboration with the City of Ballarat, will see continued investment in community programs, including match-day experiences and initiatives to support local sporting clubs and community heroes. Specific programs will be announced in the coming weeks.
Kon Karavias, Chief Commercial and Strategy Officer at the Bulldogs, said the partnership strengthens the club’s ties to the region.
“Since 2017, Mars Stadium has become our second home for our AFL and AFLW teams, so this extended partnership with Mars Wrigley and the City of Ballarat will see us continue to strengthen our connection within the region.”
Xavier Shortal, Sales Director at Mars Wrigley Australia, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to Ballarat, where it has operated for over 40 years.
“It’s an honour to sponsor such an iconic and important part of the local Ballarat community, as well as deepen our association with the Western Bulldogs.
“We’re thrilled to be using this sponsorship to give back to the local community, including launching a number of new community initiatives that we’ll proudly be working to deliver alongside the Western Bulldogs.”
Cr Tracey Hargreaves, Mayor of the City of Ballarat, welcomed the continued partnership.
“Mars Stadium is now well and truly associated across the country with AFL football in Ballarat, and this agreement will only strengthen our reputation as the sporting capital of regional Victoria.”
The Bulldogs will play two AFL matches at Mars Stadium this year, facing Port Adelaide in Round 8 and Adelaide in Round 18. Since 2017, the venue has hosted 15 AFL games, as well as five AFLW matches across four seasons.
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