Sports clubs across the Northern Victoria Region can now spruce up their club colours and inject a new team spirit thanks to the latest round of the Brumby Labor Governments’ Our Club, Our Future Sporting Uniform Grants Program.
Member for Northern Victoria Region, Candy Broad, said the $1.65 million program gives clubs the opportunity to purchase team uniforms, which can cover anything from team tops and shorts, to socks and football boots.
“There’s no doubt sports clubs are at the heart of many communities, and during the recent bushfires many people turned to their local sports club for support during such a tough time,’ Ms Broad said.
“There’s a great sense of pride in pulling on the team colours and representing your town or club, but there are many community sports clubs which lack the resources to properly equip their squads and members.” she said.
The grants will provide up to $1,000 for uniform clothing and footwear which are essential for playing sport, with priority given to disadvantaged and junior clubs.
“The program will not only benefit disadvantaged clubs, but will encourage further participation in sport,” Ms Broad said.
The Minister for Sport, Recreation and Youth Affairs, James Merlino said the grants will provide added incentive for people of all ages and abilities to be part of a team, enabling even the smallest of clubs to the look the part while playing and competing.
“Grassroots sport is thriving in Northern Victoria but many sporting clubs which demonstrate a real passion for their sport, lack the resources to properly equip their squads and members,” Mr Merlino said.
“The new uniforms will play an important part in building local sports culture, helping to establish a club’s character and build morale among team mates.
"Local sporting teams are vital to their communities and initiatives such as this assist clubs, particularly those from disadvantaged areas, bring people of all abilities together and help shape a positive identity for our towns and communities.
"By reinvesting in Victorian grassroots sport we can all work together to continue
Victoria’s proud sporting traditions and create more liveable and active communities," he said.
Applications are now open online at www.grants.dpcd.vic.gov.au. Applicants can contact the Grants Information Line on 1300 366 356 for guidelines and assistance.