Drought affected communities statewide are reaping the benefits of Bracks Government relief packages to help keep local sport and recreation options alive and thriving, Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney said today.
Ms. Tierney announced Colac-Otway Shire Council had received $50,000 through the $4.7 million Drought Relief for Community Sport and Recreation Program.
“Councils, sporting associations and local clubs, as well as the State Government, have all been working hard to keep local sport strong and healthy in this drought” Ms. Tierney said.
“The funding for Colac-Otway Shire Council will enable Birregurra and Forrest Sporting Facilities to install water tanks and for Birregurra Golf Course to upgrade spouting and install piping as well as install upgraded sprinklers to two greens.
“This funding will help the people of our community have access to facilities where they can play, exercise or watch their favourite team,” Ms. Tierney said.
“It will not only help keep this year’s competitions alive, but will be important in helping find solutions for the future to ensure grassroots sport remains a strong and integral part of local communities in years to come”
Ms. Tierney said projects funded in the first round of the program include the planting of drought resistant grasses, installation of bores and water tanks, the provision of water to sports grounds and replacing grassed playing surfaces with synthetic options.
Minister for Sport and Recreation James Merlino said the funding continues the Bracks Government’s strong commitment to tackling the effects of the drought.
“When the Bracks Government was elected in November we said we would remain committed to investing in important local sports initiatives across the state and this drought assistance funding is proof that we are getting on with the job of delivering on that promise” Mr Merlino said.
“Local sports and sporting clubs are often the cornerstone of our communities, and these drought relief funds highlight what can be achieved when government, sporting bodies, local councils and communities work in partnership”.
