newy.com.au – Sporting organisations in the Port Stephens electorate have received funding under the NSW Government’s Local Sport Grant Program, which awarded $4.49 million across the state for minor facility upgrades, new equipment and programs aimed at boosting participation in sport and active recreation.
Under the program, grants of up to $20,000 were available, with up to $50,000 allocated in each electorate.
In Port Stephens, the Port Stephens Dragon Boat Club received $13,000 for a new dragon boat, the Hunter Squash Club received $9,000 for facility repairs and upgrades, and Medowie Little Athletics Centre received $8,000 for modern timing equipment.
Other local recipients were Nelson Bay Pistol Club, which received $5,750 for construction fit-out works, Bay Area Boardriders, which received $4,000 for junior programs, Hinton Cricket Club, which received $3,700 for female change rooms and a program, and Boat Harbour Recreational Club, which received $3,648 for an equipment upgrade.
Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington said the funding would support local clubs and volunteers and help create more opportunities for people of all ages to get involved in sport. “Sport plays a vital role in bringing the Port Stephens community together,” she said.
Ms Washington said the projects ranged “from a new dragon boat on our waterways to better squash courts in Raymond Terrace” and would make “a real difference right across Port Stephens”.
Sports Minister Steve Kamper said the program provided vital funding to community sporting organisations for minor upgrades, equipment and participation programs. “The Local Sport Grant Program provides vital funds to community sporting organisations to invest in facility minor upgrades, new equipment and programs,” he said.
Mr Kamper said more than 500 sports organisations across NSW were successful in securing funding through the latest round.
