Bate's achievements as a senior player included a nomination for the NAB AFL Rising Star award for his performance against Carlton in Round 18 of the 2006 season.

Having completed his fifth full year of senior AFL football for the Melbourne Demons, Bate appeared to have become an important member of the team who was versatile and could be utilized across half-forward, in the midfield, or at full forward.

Bate has been commended for his fine marking, booming kicks and endurance.

However, in 2011, he only played nine games for Melbourne, despite showing good form for Casey in the VFL.

However, after Mark Neeld was appointed as Melbourne's new coach he was retained and not traded.