Member for Shepparton District pushes for investment in country sport

Member for Shepparton District Suzanna Sheed is urging the Andrews Labor Government to invest in country sport.

Ms Sheed said she had been assured the Country Football and Netball Program will continue, with $2 million provided in the budget.

The program has provided vital support for local clubs to upgrade their facilities, with more than 110 projects funded during the past four years.

 

“I have been assured that the Country Football Netball Program is continuing, as part of the Andrews Labor Government’s investment in sport and recreation in the 2015-16 Victorian Budget,” Ms Sheed said.

The budget also establishes a $100 million Community Sports Infrastructure Fund to help local clubs upgrade tired grounds and build the facilities they need.

“I will be advocating that a significant amount of that fund be invested in rural and regional Victoria, where sporting clubs play such a vital role in the community.

“We miss out on so much; we do not have access to the world-class facilities being invested in in Melbourne and Geelong, making local sport so much more important to our communities.”

The government has also committed $14.1 million to their Active Communities Package.

“I also note $14.1 million will be spent on encouraging more people to get outdoors, take up sport and maintain an active, healthy lifestyle.

“This funding would be particularly well spent in the Shepparton District, given the identification of a high proportion of residents suffering from obesity.

“I will be holding the government to account on this; they must spend this money where it is needed most. It is time that funds were spent in Victoria on an equitable basis.”

21 May 2015

 

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