New $22m sports fund now open

GRASSROOTS sports clubs from Geelong and the Surf Coast will have the chance to share in a new $22 million Local Sports Infrastructure Fund thanks to the state government.

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula announced last week that applications for the inaugural round of the fund are now open.

Councils and alpine resort boards are eligible to apply across five funding categories including aquatic centres and indoor stadiums, strategic facilities, female-friendly facilities, community facilities and planning.

To demonstrate its commitment to women and girls’ participation in sport, the state government has allocated up to $500,000 for female projects.

South Barwon MP Darren Cheeseman said he urged councils to apply for projects that will make a significant difference in the community.

“Sport and active recreation is the heart and soul of South Barwon. Unfortunately, many clubs and communities are struggling with run down infrastructure.

“With more and more women and girls signing up to play in South Barwon, we are getting on with upgrading infrastructure so clubs can keep up with soaring demand, while also making them accessible and more inclusive.”

The fund will support the construction, programming and activation of inclusive sport and active recreation infrastructure with the aim of achieving better health, wellbeing, social and economic outcomes for Victorian communities.

Interested clubs are encouraged to discuss project proposals with their local council.

Applications close on February 14. For more information, head to sport.vic.gov.au.