What's News....contd.

Drought Relief For Local Sports Facilities

  • Drought affected communities across Victoria are being given a helping hand to help 'drought proof' local sporting facilities, thanks to a $2.1 million boost from the Victorian Government.

  • The Member for Cranbourne District, Jude Perera MP said the Lloyd Park, Langwarrin was among 54 projects to receive funding from the latest round of the government's Drought Relief for Community Sport and Recreation Program (DRCSRP).

  • "There is no doubt the drought has forced us to think of new ways to keep sport alive in the face of climate change," Mr Perera said.

  • "The Drought Relief for Community Sport and Recreation Program provides grants to help local communities and councils develop sustainable approaches to water management, so we can continue to use our local sporting facilities.

  • "Through this initiative, we are helping sporting facilities meet the challenges of climate change so that grassroots clubs can continue to provide opportunities for active participation, whatever the weather brings," He said.

  • The $45,000.00 Brumby Labor Government grant for Lloyd park will fund:
    Lloyd Park Oval No 1 Regrassing and Irrigation Upgrade - Replace the existing cool season grass surface with a warm season grass, upgrade pump and sprinkler heads and nozzles to ensure maximum efficiency when irrigating.

  • This is a $90,000.00 project with the City of Frankston kindly contributing another $45,000.00

  • Sport and Recreation Minister, James Merlino said the funding program was helping the government highlight the importance of smarter water use.

  • "The Victorian Government is working hard to ensure all Victorians have the facilities they need to participate in sport and recreation, so they do not miss out on the benefits of healthy, active involvement.

  • Since 2006 the Victorian Government has committed $27.7 million towards new ways of keeping our drought affected sports alive and funded over 520 projects.

  • "Sporting clubs are the lifeblood of local communities because they provide a gathering place for friends and family to get together, play sport and have fun," Mr Merlino said.

  • "More and more, we're seeing sporting associations, councils, and clubs put efficient water practices into place, which is great to see.

  • "Managing the effects of the drought is a challenge for all Victorians. That's why the Victorian Government has been working in partnership with local councils and their communities to keep grassroots sport alive and meet the challenges of the drought."