New change rooms, new lighting and upgraded ovals are on their way to boost more country football and netball clubs across Victoria, thanks to more support from the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence today announced 11 new projects that will share in more than $2.5 million from the 2022-23 Country Football and Netball Program.
Grant recipients include LB Davern Reserve, home of the Wandong Warriors Junior Football Club, which is receiving $195,000 to upgrade and reshape the sporting oval and install new drainage.
Home of the Bullioh Bulldogs Netball and Football Clubs, Wyeeboo Recreation Reserve has scored $250,000 to build a brand-new clubhouse. This will feature new female friendly changerooms, a disability change space, social space, and new canteen - bringing the wider Tallangatta Valley community together.
In Port Fairy, $250,000 is being provided to upgrade the oval and netball court lighting at Gardens Reserve - extending time on the court and the oval for the Port Fairy Seagulls.
The Program is a partnership with the AFL, AFL Victoria, and Netball Victoria. Since 2005, more than $37.5 million has been invested in more than 560 projects across the state.
The Victorian Budget 2023-24 is providing more than $213 million to deliver new and improved community sport infrastructure and support initiatives that boost participation and inclusion in local sports clubs and organisations. It's part of the more than $1.9 billion invested in community sport and recreation infrastructure since 2014. For latest information about the program and successful grant recipients visit sport.vic.gov.au.
As stated by Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence
"Country football and netball clubs are the heart and soul of Victorian communities. Programs like these ensure they remain an integral part of regional life."
As stated by Member for Yan Yean Lauren Kathage
"Whether you're a player or a fan - these new facilities will be enjoyed by the whole community and encourage even more locals to come and join the fun."
As stated by the Head of AFL Victoria Ben Kavenagh
"The Country Football and Netball Program continues to play an important role in helping clubs and communities across Victoria develop new and upgraded facilities."
As stated by CEO of Netball Victoria Andrea Pearman
"The Country Football and Netball Program continues to support improvements to community sport facilities that we know are vital to increasing participation."
As stated by President of Wandong Junior Football Club Stuart Fraser
"This project will deliver vital upgrades that will provide the youth of Wandong more participation opportunities."
