Chief executive Michael Bailey has organised for the YMCA to provide buses to get the team to and from the Olympics event in Melbourne, as well as new drink bottles and goggles. “It’s something we felt that we could support and should support,” he said.

“Sport is a medium for everyone to be involved, and this is a great example of a team getting involved in their community and promoting healthy lifestyles.”

Mr Bailey said he was impressed with the commitment of the team to their training. 

“They’re representing our region and they’re going to do us proud,” he said.

“I think the whole community should get behind them.”

The Bendigo Barracudas are in training for the summer Olympics in Melbourne next month. Head coach Michele Bearryman-Cooper said the team was excited that people had offered support.

“The athletes have just been beaming with pride,” she said.

“They’re absolutely ecstatic about the new goggles and water bottles.”

Ms Bearryman-Cooper said the financial assistance and sponsorship would allow all team members to be able to attend the games, over the weekend of March 23–24.