More than 120 Apexians came to the region as part of the National Apex 40 Rort. The event, hosted by the Bendigo Apex 40 Club, attracted Apexians from interstate and New Zealand. It was the fifth time Bendigo had hosted the event, with the last time being in 1999 Club president Bob Caldwell said a group of about 12 club members had been preparing for the event for two years. The visitors arrived on Friday for a four-day stay. Their itinerary included an ecumenical service and a tour of Sacred Heart Cathedral. It also included a visit to the Golden Dragon Museum and Bendigo Art Gallery, among many other activities as well as a trip toCricket Willow at Shepherds Flat on Sunday. The group also held its annual meeting on Saturday at Big Hill.

Organising committee member David Bidmade said the visitors had really enjoyed the occasion. He said it was significant that Bendigo had been able to host the national event this year. “I think it’s really good for the town. “It was worth it.” Mr Caldwell agreed. “It brings money to Bendigo because they were not billeted, they have hotel and motel accommodation.” Mr Caldwell said many of the visitors would finish their stay in Bendigo today, and 41 visitors would join in a post-Rort tour until Friday. This will involve them visiting various other tourist locations in Bendigo and surrounding areas.