Bathurst All-Stars to shine before Wanderers

Published on 25 January 2024

In a significant nod to local sports and community spirit, local women's football teams are set to provide pre-match entertainment at the upcoming A-League Women's game between Western Sydney Wanderers and Newcastle United Jets.

The game will be played as a curtain raiser on Carrington Park on Friday February 9, before the main game between the Wanderers and Jets. 

Deputy Mayor of Bathurst Ben Fry is excited about the exhibition match. 

“Bathurst is all set to witness a fantastic display of football talent, not just from the professional players but also from our local stars. Their participation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of these aspiring athletes and a reflection of council’s commitment to encouraging female participation in sports. We reached out to some locals to organise a women’s matchup and it looks like we’re on for an exhilarating day of football.” 

Working with Bathurst Regional Council, organiser of the pre-match entertainment and president of the Panorama Football Club Beau Yates, said that he has pulled together some of the best players from various local teams for the occasion. 

“A group of ‘Bathurst All-Stars’ will play each other, donning kits from local clubs Panorama FC (red and black) and Eglinton FC (yellow) to colour-match the playing strips in the succeeding official match.” Mr Yates said. 

“This is a wonderful opportunity for our local women’s teams to be part of a professional sports environment. Their involvement in the pre-match entertainment not only showcases their talent but also aligns perfectly with our aim of promoting women's sports at all levels. It's a proud moment for us to see these local players take the field before such a significant match in the A-League Women's calendar.” He added. 

Deputy Mayor Ben Fry said the pre-match entertainment will feature exhibition matches and skills displays from the women's football teams, providing a platform for these athletes to exhibit their skills and enthusiasm for the game. It's an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the achievements and potential of local sports talent. 

“This event is not just about the excitement of an A-League Women's game; it's a showcase of the growing strength and popularity of women's football at the grassroots level. The participation of local women in the pre-match entertainment highlights was important to me, and I’m glad we can nurture young talent and promote sports diversity and inclusion,” he said. 

About the A-League Women's Match: 

The Western Sydney Wanderers vs Newcastle United Jets match is a highlight of the A-League Women's season. The match will take place on February 9, 2024, at Bathurst’s Carrington Park. 

Fans are encouraged to arrive early to support the local  teams during the pre-match entertainment. 

Tickets for the fixture are available at https://www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au/Events/Liberty-A-League 

Media contact: Therese Ryan Manager Corporate Communications P: 6333 6202 
M: 0437 958 478 E: therese.ryan@bathurst.nsw.gov.au