Agnico Eagle renews reading program partnership with Bendigo Braves and Red Energy Arena

The Bendigo Braves and Red Energy Arena are proud to announce the renewal of their partnership with Agnico Eagle for the fourth consecutive year. The agreement includes the naming rights for the “Be Brave Agnico Eagle Reading Program,” an initiative that promotes literacy and positive relationships among children in the Bendigo community.

"At Agnico Eagle, we support the communities in which we operate and assist with health and wellbeing, education and sustainability, said Felicia Binks, Director Environment and Government Relations, Australia at Agnico Eagle.

"Children aspire to be what they can see, so having elite athletes and their sporting idols reading with them, and showing them that it is important for education is key."

The agreement extends for one year, reflecting the ongoing dedication of Agnico Eagle and the Bendigo Braves to making a positive impact in the lives of young people.

"We appreciate Agnico Eagle supporting a wonderful program that gives back to the community," said Ben Harvey, Commercial Partnerships and Community Manager at Red Energy Arena. "We are excited to start this reading program in Term two and three, where we will be attending eight schools over 42 sessions. We wouldn't be able to deliver this program without Agnico Eagle’s support."

The Be Brave Agnico Eagle Reading Program is designed to foster a love for reading and learning among children, using the Bendigo Braves' values of teamwork, inclusivity, and connection as guiding principles. Classroom-based activities and on-court practical experiences provide students with structured and meaningful interactions with the Braves players, who serve as role models and mentors.

Cassidy McLean, Bendigo Braves Championship player, expressed her enthusiasm for the program renewal, saying, “The Agnico Reading program is a great initiative for us to engage the community. Bendigo Braves are so much more than just basketball, and I'm extremely humbled to be part of a great program.”

Students who have participated in the program also shared their experiences. Sulli Bracey, a Grade 3 student, said, “I really enjoy reading to the Braves. They told me how to use better words and helped me figure out words that I didn’t know.”

Harry Lowe, another Grade 3 student, added, “It was really fun to get to know the Braves players and get the opportunity to read to them.”

Jordan Ancrum, Acting Principal at a local school, praises the program, stating, “The Braves and Agnico Eagle have been supporting our Literacy Program for the last few years. The staff and students love having the players in the classroom, as we have a lot of students interested in basketball, and this program is a great way to keep them excited about reading and improve overall engagement."

The renewal of the partnership between the Bendigo Braves/Red Energy Arena and Agnico Eagle ensures that this valuable program will continue to make a meaningful difference in the Bendigo region.