Event promoter Tony Doherty said the August 29 event would attract 100 male and female bodybuilders from across Australia.

The International Federation of Bodybuilders has sanctioned the competition.

"We are inviting athletes from all over the country to compete in Bendigo. They will contest titles in bikini, figure, fitness, physique and bodybuilding, for both men and women," Mr Doherty said.

"I have been promoting bodybuilding and fitness for over 30 years and it all started for me in Bendigo. In 1983, we started the first Mr Bendigo contest that ran annually until 1995. We did a few small country classics at the Capital Theatre until we out grew it.

"The opening of Ulumbarra is perfect for us and will provide a world class venue for us to hold this annual event.

"It's a great thrill to come back to my home town of Bendigo to promote health and fitness. I left Bendigo in 1994 with a dream to build a national gym brand and to build the biggest sport and fitness expo that Australia has seen.  Now with six Doherty's Gyms and a partnership with Arnold Schwarzenegger, it is time to bring it all back to Bendigo.

"I look forward to working with the City of Greater Bendigo's Major Events team to make this a stand out event on the annual fitness calendar," said Mr Doherty.

Bendigo Mayor Cr Peter Cox said he welcomed the event to Bendigo.

"This is an exciting event for Bendigo and it highlights the city's reputation and capacity to host a diverse range of national sporting events,'' he said.

"Council is committed to supporting and attracting major events that enhance our city's reputation, attract visitors and boost our local economy.  We are looking forward to hosting the 2015 Australian Country Classic this year in the new Ulumbarra Theatre and we hope the participants will enjoy this wonderful new facility and our beautiful city during their time here," said Cr Cox.