SYKES – VICHEALTH ACTIVE CLUB GRANTS PROGRAM

The Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes, is encouraging local sporting clubs, regional sporting leagues and associations, and local active recreation clubs to consider applying for an Active Club Grant in their new round of funding. Guidelines and application forms are now available for grants of up to $2,500.

“The Active Club Grants Program aims to encourage and increase opportunities for physical activity by promoting safety and breaking down the barriers, such as lack of equipment or training,” said Dr Sykes.

The new VicHealth initiative will focus on sporting clubs and regional leagues or associations, active recreation clubs and organisations that provide community sport and recreation opportunities.

Dr Sykes said “Research shows that lack of equipment is a major barrier to participation in physical activity, particularly by disadvantaged people and juniors.”

“Often local sport and active recreation organisations, having identified a need within their community for a new team or activity, find it difficult to acquire funding for the essential equipment or training required to allow the activity to start. This could be the only barrier to participation, and is sometimes a one-off cost.”

Dr Rob Moodie VicHealth CEO said “Regular physical activity not only protects against many illnesses, it also makes people mentally healthy, alert and resilient against the stresses of modern life.”

“Physically active communities are more likely to be healthier communities and active people are more likely to experience a better quality of life,” Dr Sykes continued.

Dr Sykes explained “We want to encourage and increase opportunities for people to participate in physical activity and improve the safety of active recreation environments.”

The funding round is now open and the closing date is Friday, 9 December, 2005.

Guidelines and application forms are available from Dr Sykes office on 5762 2100, or at 2/55 Carrier Street Benalla or can be downloaded from the VicHealth website www.vichealth.vic.gov.au.

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