By Jessica Anstice
Yarra Ranges and Cardinia athletes are set to have more opportunities as local sporting clubs share in $10,741 of State Government grants.
The grants are a part of the government’s Active Club Grant funding to deliver new sports programs.
With junior sport competitions kicking off and non-contact sport resuming for adults as Covid-19 restrictions ease, many residents are wanting to stay healthy and get active again.
Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing said the funding would enable local sport clubs to provide more opportunities for Cardinia and Yarra Ranges residents to improve their health through playing sport.
“This funding will make it even easier for Cardinia and Yarra Ranges residents to get active and reconnect with others in their community while keeping safe from coronavirus,” she said.
“Local clubs and associations play an important role in our community. I’m encouraging Cardinia and Yarra Ranges residents to support their local club and give sport a go.
“Playing sport is great for our physical and mental health. Joining a sports club is also a great way to get involved with your community, have fun and make new friends.”
VicHealth CEO Sandro Demaio said Active Club Grants will support sporting clubs to encourage locals to enjoy better health through community sport.
“As our daily lives and routines continue to change, it’s vital we continue to be physically active and socially connected, and joining a local sports club is a great place to start,” Dr Demaio said.
“We know sports clubs are the heart and soul of their communities and we’ve heard from so many Victorians who’ve really missed playing the sport they love and seeing their teammates.
“These grants create more opportunities for Cardinia and Yarra Ranges residents to get involved in their local clubs, so we encourage everyone to check out what’s on in their area and give it a go while supporting sports clubs.”
Local clubs funded in Cardinia and Yarra Ranges include:
Chirnside Park Football Club will receive $3000 to introduce three new female teams for junior girls aged under 10 to under 18. This will complement the first team introduced in the 2019 season.Emerald’s Monarch Calisthenics College will receive $2000 to offer programs and teams for children aged three to 17 years, for a community that has never had a calisthenics club.
Cockatoo and District Bowls Club will receive $2864 to introduce Barefoot Bowls twilight events to increase the participation of young people and women, developing their skills in a semi-competitive and entry-level program.
Gippsland Storm State League Netball Club in Pakenham will receive $2,877.50 to introduce development clinics to increase fitness and netball skills of females aged 14 to 20 years old, and minimise the numbers of girls that are dropping out of the sport.
For more information on VicHealth’s Active Club Grants or the full list of local clubs receiving grants visit www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/activeclub
