Leisure Networks deliver Fair Access workshops to local LGA’s.

AS the Regional Sports Assembly for the Barwon Region, Leisure Networks have helped to deliver Fair Access training workshops to four of the Barwon’s Local Government Areas (LGA’s).

Leisure Networks delivered the session last Friday (March 3) to the Surf Coast Shire, City of Greater Geelong, Shire of Colac Otway and Moyne Shire, providing practical insight and knowledge that ensures fair access for all people at community sporting facilities in the respective LGA’s.

Sport, Recreation and Health Manager at Leisure Networks, Brooke Connolly said the training and standards update were a “put your money where your mouth is initiative”.

“Initiatives like the Fair Access Policy Roadmap, that truly promote inclusivity, are at the heart of our Leisure Networks vision: ‘healthy, capable, inclusive communities,” Ms Connolly said.

“Personally, I feel privileged to be playing my part in delivering the roadmap and I’m looking forward to seeing more opportunities for all people across our regional sporting communities.”

Ms Connolly mentioned that part of the roadmap is the inclusion of women and girls and making them feel comfortable to participate in community sport in their local area.

“If we can ensure that there are fair opportunities and access to local facilities, then we can support women and girls to participate and therefore enjoy the benefits of physical recreation,” she said.

“Of course, participation in community sport is not just about physical wellbeing.

“It’s as much about mental wellbeing, particularly as it relates to how we connect with our communities and build friendships.”

The Leisure Networks session was one of 13 workshops rolled out across Victoria as part of the Education Phase of the Fair Access Policy Roadmap that was launched by the Minister for Community Sport in 2022.

In line with messaging from the state government, all local councils from July 2024 will need to ensure fair access to sporting facilities for people of all genders to be considered eligible for infrastructure funding.

For more, visit www.leisurenetworks.org