Local clubs receive TAC road safety funding

Anglesea FNC women's football representative Jenn Lingam and Surf Coast Suns president Jay Williams. Photo: NATHAN RIVALLAND

LOCAL football and netball clubs have been rewarded for their efforts to promote road safety and prevent road trauma during the 2024 season.

The Surf Coast Suns, Anglesea FNC, Drysdale FC, Western Eagles FNC, South Barwon FNC, St Albans FNC, Bell Park Sport and Recreation Club and Leopold FNC are among 233 clubs statewide to share in $600,000 from the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) and AFL Victoria.

Clubs will receive up to $10,000 to use on a range of road safety initiatives, including education programs, club transport, new equipment and uniforms and facility upgrades and improvements.

Anglesea FNC women’s co-ordinator Jenn Lingam said the club was thrilled to be successful in securing a grant.

“It’s a huge win for the club; we are rapt.

“Where we are, there’s lots of wildlife and kangaroos and we are always wanting our players and the opposition to be vigilant and drive home safely.

“We just want to continue educating as many people as we can to slow down and be safe.

“We held a TAC round last year, and it will continue with assistance from this grant. We also plan on putting some of the funding towards equipment.”

Surf Coast Suns president Jay Williams said road safety messaging was incredibly important to continue spreading far and wide.

“It’s paramount. We’ve got a lot of kids who have e-bikes up here at North Torquay and plenty of players, coaches and volunteers crossing busy roads.

“This funding will help us to further educate our club members, and the community on the importance of staying safe by roads.”

Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne congratulated clubs such as the two on the Surf Coast for receiving the grants.

“Football and netball clubs are at the heart of our communities, and we are fortunate to have so many people campaigning to prevent road trauma,” she said.

TAC chief executive officer Tracey Slatter also thanked local clubs for starting conversations and raising awareness.

“The power of peer-to-peer support, leadership and education cannot be underestimated – and I thank our local football and netball clubs for being road safety ambassadors and caring for their communities.”