Nationals Member for Gippsland East Tim Bull has congratulated five local community and sporting groups, who have been successful in receiving funding under the VicHealth Reimagining Health Grants program.
The local clubs will share in the $3 million of Vic Health funding to help communities reconnect and improve health, in the wake of the Black Summer Bushfires and coronavirus pandemic.
“This much-needed funding from VicHealth will ensure local organisations can continue supporting our community to build back better from the loss of connection endured post bushfires and coronavirus,” said Mr Bull, who served on the VicHealth Board for three years.
The five local community groups will use the grants to boost participation and encouraging physical activity while reinstating social connections.
The following successful community local groups are:
• Bairnsdale Scout Group received $10,000 to deliver a sustained water active program next summer.
• Metung Swan Reach Cricket Club received $10,000 towards establishing a women’s season including providing players with equipment, uniforms and coaching to facilitate training and matches.
• Gippsland Bowls Region received $3,000 to establish a junior bowls program for young people aged between 10-18 years of age to encourage participation in bowls.
• Football Victoria will deliver weekly soccer clinics in a variety of local schools across East Gippsland.
• Cinespace Inc. will receive $3,000 to expand the Smartphone stories project that mentors local East Gippsland indigenous and non-indigenous creatives in digital storytelling workshops.

“This funding has allowed new initiatives and programs to be delivered in our region, providing opportunities with a focus on youth and female participation,” Mr Bull said.
“Involvement within a club creates positive social connections that includes a sense of belonging within the local community.
“I wish to congratulate the successful applicants and thank our wonderful volunteer organisations for taking proactive steps towards providing greater opportunities for our community.”

Caption: Nationals State MP Tim Bull congratulated Bairnsdale Scout Group after meeting with Scout Leader Catherine Mullins, Leader and parent Phil Mehlert together with Scouts Ava Felix and Chase, who will benefit from the VicHealth funding.