Great News for Grassroots Sport in the Shoalhaven Region

The ClubGRANTS program offers valuable funding opportunities for community sporting organisations, with Category 2 funding specifically aimed at supporting projects and initiatives that promote community wellbeing and social cohesion through sports development and participation.

“The ClubGRANTS scheme is a fantastic way for local sporting clubs and groups to access vital funding at a local level and we are proud to be able to offer community support in this way,” said Group CEO Bernie Brown.

“After allocating Category 2 funding of $109,000 last year and $133,000 in 2022, to be able to put up another $85,000 to kick off 2024 is fantastic.

“We’ve delivered over $600,000 in cash sporting grants in the past five years at a time of community need during the pandemic and natural disasters. This figure doesn’t include over $2.5 million (over five years) in sporting infrastructure maintenance and preparation to our wonderful community sports facilities including Worrigee Links, Hayden Drexel Cricket Oval and bowling greens, this also flows on to local suppliers.”

The Club’s Board will consider all applications in December with the outcomes to be announced in January 2024.

“The ClubGRANTS scheme is a fantastic way for local sporting clubs and groups to access vital funding at a local level and we are proud to be able to offer community support in this way” — Shoalhaven Ex-Services Group CEO Bernie Brown

The criteria or continuing focus for this year will be: emerging sports, disability inclusion programs, female sport participation, indigenous opportunities and participation programs, veterans, disadvantaged communities, grassroots sports programs, kids’ healthy lifestyles and active seniors.

Non–sporting community groups can look forward to Category 1 funding opportunities that will be accessible through the local ClubGRANTS committee round that will open in March 2024.

“Last year $326,311 in Category 1 funding was allocated across the LGA supported wholly by clubs in our region, $87,500 of which came from our group funding projects like Salt Care’s Homeless Shelter,” said Mr Brown.

“It's important that the ClubGRANTS model continues to deliver local results for local community groups, not diluted by administration costs and other stakeholders influencing allocation.

“The ClubGRANTS scheme has long been a cornerstone of support for community groups and projects throughout our state. However, recent discussions have emerged regarding potential changes to this vital program. These changes could include alterations to eligibility criteria, funding allocation, and overall administration.

“Community groups have experienced first-hand the positive impact of the ClubGRANTS scheme. It has supported a wide range of initiatives, from social welfare programs to cultural and sporting events, enhancing the quality of life for many individuals and communities.”

Details of the Shoalhaven Ex-Services Group Category 2 Grants Application process can be obtained by emailing: [email protected].