Hundreds of grassroots sport and recreation clubs throughout South Australia will benefit from a significant funding initiative designed to support community-based activities. The State Government announced that more than $1.3 million will be distributed to 565 recipients as part of the Active Club Program, with a special focus on clubs across regional and greater metropolitan areas.
The funding will help clubs in improving the programs and services they provide, helping to promote active lifestyles within the local communities. These grants are a part of the state’s commitment to nurturing local sports and recreational activities that are fundamental to community health and social interaction.
The State Government has revealed plans for a subsequent round of funding, termed the Drought Relief Round. This additional initiative is part of a broader drought support package from the State Government and features $2 million used to assist regional clubs affected by drought conditions. The goal is to furnish these clubs with resources to create accessible and affordable opportunities for community members to remain active despite challenging environmental conditions.
A key aspect of the funding is its emphasis on supporting female participation in sport and recreation. Clubs can now access funds designated for removing barriers that women and girls face in sport. This includes expenditures on period products, menstrual health training, resources, and the development of inclusive uniform options.
Apart from initiatives aimed directly at female participation, the grants will cover a variety of other project costs. Eligible clubs can invest these funds in sporting equipment, professional development for coaches and staff, medical training, and promotional activities.
Emily Bourke, MLC Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing said, “On the eve of Gather Round, we want to recognise the incredible work of grassroots clubs and get behind the staff and volunteers who keep them going.
“This program is one of the ways we are investing in clubs across the state so they can deliver initiatives that make a real impact within their communities.
“Having access to better uniforms and equipment, providing further education and delivering an inclusive space for girls and women will help clubs meet local needs.
“Expanding this support to drought affected areas is another vital measure to help the many South Australians doing it tough to stay active.”
The current round of the ACP stipulates that clubs with memberships numbering 100 or more will be granted $3,000, while smaller clubs with 20 to 99 members will receive $1,500. This tiered funding approach has been done to equitably address the needs of clubs regardless of size and scale.
Helen Macleod, President of SA Dragons Abreast and a grant recipient, shared, “This grant will help our club to offset costs for club PFDs (life jackets) required as mandatory while paddling at West Lakes. It will also contribute to upgrading other safety equipment we need including night lighting on boats, radios and a printer for preparing race sheets.
“We’re an inclusive club that’s always actively recruiting so this additional financial support ensures that we can continue to welcome new members, including breast cancer survivors and supporters.”
As the preparation for the new Drought Relief Round begins, regional clubs facing the adversities of a harsh climate are encouraged to apply. This additional funding round will open later this month, offering another layer of support to make sure even those in the most affected areas can keep their communities active and engaged.
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