Residents in the Northern Victoria Region have a chance to nominate their local sports heroes, sporting clubs and associations in the 2009 Victorian Sport and Recreation Awards.
Member forNorthern Victoria Region, Candy Broad said the awards provided a great opportunity to acknowledge those who had invested their time and energy to sport at the grassroots level and made a real difference in their local communities.
“Strong sporting clubs support stronger communities and stronger families, and the Sport and Recreation Awards are an important way to honour the individuals, sports clubs and organisations that are at the heart of local communities, Ms Broad said.
“Victorians love their sport and our local sports clubs and associations play an integral role in ensuring our communities are strong, happy, healthy and active.”
Ms Broad said the Sport and Recreation Awards categories included:
- Outstanding Club Award;
- Community Participation Award;
- Sport and Recreation Education Award;
- Sport and Recreation Research Award;
- Young Person in Sport Award;
- Volunteer Involvement Award;
- Access for All Award; and
- Community Facility Design Award.
Sports Minister James Merlino said the awards are the perfect opportunity to acknowledge those in the community who work so tirelessly for their club or organisation, often without reward and behind the scenes.
“Contributions can involve coaching, volunteering, administrating or just going that extra yard to help provide opportunities for people to take part in sport and physical activity, not just at clubs, but in local community organisations,” Mr Merlino said.
“Award winners are an inspiration to their communities and we’re looking forward to the stories of local Victorians who get others involved in local sport and recreation.”
Ms Broad said individuals and clubs will be honoured for their efforts, the Brumby Labor Government would also provide $50,000 in funding across the eight Award categories.
“The Sport and Recreation Awards also encourage a healthy and active lifestyle, which is what the Brumby Labor Government’s Go for your life campaign is all about.”
Ms Broad said nominations could be made online at www.sport.vic.gov.au.
For more information contact 9208 3440 or email awards@sport.vic.gov.au.
Nominations close Friday, 16 October, 2009.