Local sporting clubs who are looking to make their facilities more environmentally sustainable should contact their local council to apply for a share in $2 million worth of Victorian Government funding, now available through the latest round of the ‘Sustainable Sports Ground Program’, Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull said.

“Having just come through a long dry spell, a number of local sporting and country clubs have been struggling to maintain their grounds and these grants will provide extra support to help clubs deal with the impacts of climate extremes,” Mr Bull said.

“With up to $100,000 available for each project, this program provides the cash boost needed for sports clubs to develop long term, sustainable, low water use community sporting facilities that are better equipped to deal with future climate challenges.

“From water recycling and storm water harvesting, to drought resistant turf and the installation of synthetic playing surfaces for sports such as lawn bowls and tennis, the Sustainable Sports Ground Program helps local sporting clubs continue to provide quality facilities, even at times of extended adverse weather conditions.

“By helping communities to improve the quality and water efficiency of their sporting facilities, it will encourage members of the community to more actively participate in sport throughout the year.

Mr Bull said, “the Victorian Government was proud to invest in the sustainability of local sporting facilities and I am keen to work with local clubs and council to ensure more people participate in sport in East Gippsland.”

Applications close Wednesday 10 August 2011. For more information about the Sustainable Sports Ground Program, visit www.grants.dpcd.vic.gov.au