Local sport and recreation clubs can now apply for a 2015 VicHealth Active Club Grant.

Active Club Grants provide funding for essential sporting items and sports injury prevention and management equipment.

These grants are aimed at increasing physical activity and helping communities to better connect through a range of team and individual sports.

Member for Eastern Victoria Region Harriet Shing MP has encouraged all local sport and recreation clubs throughout Gippsland to apply.

There are two grant types that clubs can apply for as part of this year’s Active Club Grants – a grant of up to $3,000 for sports items and equipment, or a larger grant of up to $10,000 for core equipment that will help increase or maintain participation through their club.

The larger grants will be provided to a total of up to ten clubs to implement new programs and activities to increase participation, to clubs trying to reach new community members who don’t currently participate, or to clubs in areas experiencing significant population growth.

Priority will be given to applications from clubs and organisations that demonstrate how an Active Club Grant will increase opportunities for regular physical activity in the local community.

For further information or to apply online, visitwww.vichealth.vic.gov.au/activeclub.

Applications close on Friday 18 September.

Quotes attributed to Minister for Health, Jill Hennessy

“Being active is important for a healthy lifestyle.”

“The Active Club Grants help our local football clubs, netball teams, and other sports buy the equipment they need to play the sports they love.”

Quotes attributed to Minister for Sport, John Eren

“Sport brings communities together.”

“These grants will help clubs continue to play and compete, and will encourage more people to get involved, especially those who might not otherwise be able to.”

Quotes attributed to Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Harriet Shing MP

“Community sport is one of the best and healthiest activities to enjoy, but clubs often struggle to afford the equipment they need – that’s where these grants really help.”

“Whether it’s for essential equipment like bats, portable goals, nets, uniforms or balls, or for items to prevent or manage injury, I would encourage local clubs in Gippsland to apply for an Active Club grant.”