SYKES – FUNDING FOR LOCAL BOATING

The Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes, encourages local community and sporting groups to take advantage of the $5.1 million funding package for boating safety and facilities.

Dr Sykes said, “It’s great to see money being injected into the area of boating safety education and training, as well as rescue equipment and general boating infrastructure.

“We have some fantastic recreational boating activities in our electorate with locals and visitors taking advantage of Lake Nillahcootie, Lake Nagambie, Goulburn Weir, Lake Eildon and Lake Buffalo.”

“Last year the area benefited from a range of grants. The Eildon Fire Brigade received funding for specialist life jackets and wet weather gear; The Strathbogie Shire Council secured over $15,000 for a review of boating zones for the Goulburn River, Goulburn Weir and Lake Nagambie, as well as safety signage.

“In Benalla the State Emergency Services Unit received GPS training to improve responsiveness to search and rescue incidents and the Benalla Scout Group were supplied with the funds to purchase 15 personal flotation devices.

“Applications for the funding are now open and I strongly urge local groups to apply. We have already seen some great benefits from this program and we want to see more in the future.

“For more information about the funding application process you can visit www.marinesafety.vic.gov.au. Alternatively, feel free to contact my office. Peta Clark, our funding officer, can assist any organisations looking for extra assistance with the application process.

“Applications for funding close on Friday, 19 August.

Media contact: Bill Sykes (03) 5762 2100 or 0427 624 989