Community backs Rochy sports gear effort

A RECENT sports equipment drive for the youth of flood affected Rochester has been a great success with donations pouring in from across the region.

The drive, which was organised by non-for-profit group Sports Focus and run during December, asked locals to donate old and unwanted sports gear to help keep children and young people active over the holiday period.

The large amount of donations meant that nearby Gunbower was also able to benefit from the equipment drive.

The equipment was distributed throughout both towns for people to go help themselves to whenever they want, whether for a hit of tennis or a kick of the footy.

Sports Focus project coordinator Jasmine Noske said those who donated went above and beyond to help out, with sporting clubs also contributing to the drive.

“It went really well we got so, so much equipment, it was really good,” she said. “We had donations from a number of clubs in the area.

“Bendigo Northern Flames Junior Netball donated 50 netballs, which was amazing. We’ve had cricket pads and basketballs along with everything else you can think of donated.”

Ms Noske also commended the individual efforts of people in the region.

“Some people went and bought new equipment to donate, because they didn’t have any old equipment in the shed,” she said.

“People donated their old favourite tennis racquets and things like that they wanted to see go to good use.”

Ms Noske said the Sports Focus team couldn’t be happier with the efforts and contributions of the community in such a trying time.

“Thank you to everyone who donated and helped make it happen,” she said.

“It was really great to see the community pull together and support the Rochester community and support the Rochester kids over the holiday period.”

Equipment tubs can be located at the Rochester Recreation Reserve, Presbyterian Church tennis/basketball courts and the Rochester Racecourse Recreation Reserve.