Sykes: Country action grant scheme for 2009

Source: Sykes Media - Jan 30

Regional sporting and recreational organisations have all been affected by the State’s economic downturn. Funding, through the 2009 Country Action Grant Scheme is now available for sporting groups throughout the Benalla Electorate. Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes, urges sporting and clubs not to overlook this funding opportunity.

Dr Sykes said this Sport & Recreation Victoria round of funding is to be distributed in grants of up to $5,000 and aims to increase the capacity of sport and active recreation organisations in regional and rural Victoria.

Types of projects to be funded include:

• Initiatives to improve the operational effectiveness and efficiency of organisations eg. Preparation of a business plan, development of policy and procedure manuals or websites and incorporation of a new organisation.

• Initiatives to improve the skills of club members through providing training for coaches and officials, administrative staff and management committee members eg. Participation in coaching or umpiring accreditation courses, first aid, workshops for committee members in financial management or information technology.

• Initiatives to increase community participation by providing accessible sport and active recreation opportunities eg. Sessions of sport or active recreation for older adults, young mothers or people with a disability.

For projects planned to commence between 1 July 2009 – 31 December 2009 the applications close on 16 April 2009.

Applications can be lodged on-line, via email, fax or post with applications being received by Thursday, 16 April 2009 will be considered for the second assessment phase for 2009.

Further details are available from the grant information line at The Department of Planning and Community Development (DPCD) free call 1300 366 356 or via their web site on www.dvc.vic.gov.au/grants or by contacting Peta Clark at Bill Sykes’ office ph: 5762 2100.