Labor commits to Sports Star Awards

THE State Labor Government will provide a significant funding grant to the Bendigo Sports Star Awards if re-elected next weekend.

Announced late last week, $50,000 has been pledged to the local sporting recognition and sponsorship organisation.

The oldest of its kind in the country, Bendigo Sports Star recognises and supports the region’s elite athletes through monthly and annual awards, those who have made significant and ongoing contributions via the Hall of Fame, and supports up and commers with monthly scholarships.

The State Government money would be used to continue the backing young athletes via the scholarship program.

Member for Bendigo East and Deputy-Premier, Jacinta Allan, said it was crucial to help local groups like the Bendigo Sports Star Awards, especially in challenging post-pandemic times.

“Bendigo Sports Star is such an important part of the sporting fabric of the Bendigo community,” she said.

“It’s been run by volunteers for decades and celebrated the achievements of athletes who have gone on to the international stage who have come from Bendigo.

“They’ve come out of the Bendigo junior clubs and sporting organisations, and again, all run by volunteers.

“It’s important to keep the Sports Star going. Whether it’s the scholarships or the annual event. A re-elected Andrews Government will provide this $50,000 in support.”

Bendigo Sport Star committee chair, Sam Daykin, thanked the State Government and local MPs for the pledge and said continuing to support young Bendigo athletes was important.

“This would guarantee the future of funding to junior athletes to get them to events and help their sporting efforts to prosper,” he said.

“It helps fund travel and equipment costs so they can compete at the highest level.

“We’ve got girl who won a scholarship award go to Melbourne four times a week. Her petrol bill would be astronomical. So, helping to contribute towards that means the world.”