Sports and active recreation clubs in the Gippsland East electorate will receive funding as part of the first round of VicHealth’s 2015-16 Active Club Grants program.
Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, said the grants aim to increase or maintain participation in physical activity by funding essential equipment like bats, portable goals, uniforms and balls.
“This funding is vital to helping many more Victorians get the recommended 2.5 hours per week of moderate physical activity,” Mr Bull said.
“As well as the physical benefits of preventing illnesses, getting active helps maintain mental wellbeing, keeping us alert and resilient against the stresses of modern life.
“Research also shows that sport builds community pride and loyalty and offers people the chance to get involved, providing them with a positive sense of self-worth.”
The following clubs were among a total of 262 across Victoria to share in more than $746,330 worth of VicHealth Active Club Grants:
• $3,000 – Bairnsdale Field Archers Incorporated
• $3,000 – Bairnsdale Hockey Club
• $3,000 – Bairnsdale Soccer Club
• $2,974 – Bairnsdale Tennis Club
• $2,990 – Heyfield Bowls Club
• $2,393 – Heyfield Tennis Club
• $2,960 – Maffra Hockey Club
• $2,990 – Mallacoota Halls and Recreation Reserve
• $3,000 – Mallacoota Inlet Bowls Club
• $2,850 – Metung Swan Reach Cricket Club
• $3,000 – Orbost Women’s Hockey Club
• $3,000 – Paynesville Football Club
• $2,750 – St Mary’s Nagle Cricket Club
• $9,898 – Gippsland Lakes Yacht Club
VicHealth CEO Jerril Rechter said VicHealth was proud to continue to support local sporting organisations, particularly in more disadvantaged areas of Victoria.
“VicHealth is committed to addressing the rising obesity levels in Victoria and as part of this, we want to make physical activity participation part of everyday living,” Ms Rechter said.
“Sports and active recreation clubs are a terrific way to get involved in the community, meet new people and keep active for good health. Previous rounds have shown us that these grants encourage people to try new activities, support them to join their local club or continue playing their favourite sport.”
