We opened our doors for the first time in our 30 year history today and welcomed over 600 visitors inside our world-class facility to explore, experiment and learn about what it takes to be an elite performer.
Visitors converged on Lakeside Stadium in Albert Park and enjoyed netball clinics with the Vixens, hands-on experiences with sport scientists, cooking sessions with dietitians, strength testing in the gym and much more.
One of the most popular sessions was the wheelchair rugby demonstration with the Aussie Steelers. Kids of all ages loved getting into the chairs and giving Murderball a go with the two-time Paralympic gold medallists.
Visitors also loved the opportunity to meet and rub shoulders with some of Australia’s best athletes, including Olympic Champions Lydia Lassila and Mack Horton, and Melbourne Vixens stars Liz Watson, Kate Moloney and Jo Weston.
VIS CEO Anne Marie Harrison said the Open Day was a great success;
“It was the first time we’ve ever done something like this and it was a unique and rare opportunity for the general public to see behind the scenes.”
“There were all sorts of people who experienced our hospitality; lots of happy kids of all ages, Mums, Dads and Grandparents from all walks of life. All the activities were extremely popular."
“To top it off, the staff and athletes had a great time sharing the experience with the community,” she added.
Visitors clearly felt privileged to be able to go behind the scenes today and feedback from the event has been excellent with many expressing how impressed they were by the facility, the friendly and approachable athletes and extensive knowledge of the high performance experts.
The VIS Open Day was supported by the Victorian Government and part of the VIS’ support for the Premier’s Active April campaign. https://www.activeapril.vic.gov.au/
