Government gives $10 million for sports funding

ON a visit to the district last week Treasurer Tim Pallas announced that the City of Ballarat would receive $10 million as part of the Community Sports Infrastructure Loans scheme.

The loan will allow council to bring forward 17 sporting infrastructure projects at 12 sporting clubs in nine locations over the next two years.

Projects include upgrading and constructing female change facilities, improving lighting, and upgrading surface conditions at recreation facilities across the municipality, including a major redevelopment at Victoria Park.

“We’re investing in the health and wellbeing of all Victorians – encouraging communities to get out there and get active,” Mr Pallas said.

“Upgrading sporting facilities, change rooms and local grounds will ensure Victorians have the facilities they need to be active and involved in the community.

“We are partnering with local government and sporting communities to make sure that things that the community needs can be brought on as early as possible.”

Mr Pallas added that councils were not required to apply for the loan scheme; they could simply apply for the grants.

“This is about doing more and no council is required to make an application under these arrangements but quite frankly if you can access a loan facility that is at about 1.65%, that’s cheaper than inflation, can I tell you that’s good money to get on and deliver these vital facilities,” Mr Pallas said.

Herman Bogers, President Ballarat District Soccer Association welcomed last week’s announcement.

“All the local clubs are getting some money, which is great, it helps with the development of the game,” he said.

“I think the grounds and lighting have always been a problem, people can’t train (at night) and a lot of the money will be going towards lighting the ground at Victoria Park.

“Vic Park, I think, has always been a bigger project because it involves a lot of other user groups.

“We have 200 plus players at the club and this funding has come at the right time, it’s well and truly needed.”