NATIONALS CAMPAIGN FOR GIPPSLAND'S SHARE OF GRANTS

The Nationals Member for Gippsland Province Peter Hall says he will push for Gippsland football and netball clubs to receive a fair share of the expanded grants program announced by the State Government.

Mr Hall said The Nationals had been lobbying for a $20 million program over four years after the government originally offered just $2.3 million.

"We told them at the time that it was never going to enough money to cover the shortfall in projects throughout country Victoria and it is pleasing to see that they have finally listened to The Nationals," Mr Hall said.

"The extra $6 million will allow for improvements at more netball and football clubs and I will be making sure that Gippsland gets its fair share.

"Our football and netball clubs provide an outstanding community service and upgrading facilities is extremely important.

"The government can't keep relying on volunteers to do all of the work. Our country clubs need a helping hand to make more improvements and I will be continuing to lobby for the program to be extended beyond 2006."

Mr Hall said Gippsland had only received one grant of $50,000 (to the Stratford Football Club) in the first round of funding.

A former country football premiership captain and coach, along with playing experience in the AFL, Mr Hall said more needs to be done to help the next generation of sports stars in country areas.

"The Parliamentary Inquiry into Country Football made it clear that facilities throughout regional Victoria needed to be upgraded if we are going to encourage young people to enjoy active lifestyles," Mr Hall said.

"Our kids aren't all going to be champion footballers or netballers but they will all benefit from the exercise and the social side of sporting clubs.

"The Nationals believe that a common sense approach to funding sporting club improvements is required and we will continue to work with the State Government to encourage further investment in Gippsland."

Media contact: Peter Hall (03) 5174 7066