A new amenities and change room facility was officially opened at the Penshurst Recreation Reserve on Saturday as part of the Victorian Government’s Country Football and Netball Program..
Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney was part of the official proceedings that followed the Penshurst Football and Netball Club’s final home and away football match of the season against Woorndoo Mortlake.
The new facility was built through extensive fundraising by the local community, which was supported with additional funds by the Victorian Government and Southern Grampians Shire Council.
“In good times and in bad – it is often sport that helps keep the heart in country towns across the state,” Ms Tierney said.
“The Victorian Government is working hard in partnership with councils and their communities to help sport prosper and thrive.
“Clubs such as Penshurst are often the glue that keeps communities together. This is particularly so in regional communities.
The $10 million Country Football and Netball Program is a joint State Government and AFL initiative.
“The funding will help rural communities upgrade and improve the sports facilities which are regularly used by locals to play, train and attend matches,” said Minister for Sport, Recreation and Youth Affairs, James Merlino.
“We’ve provided this funding so even more Victorians can get involved in sport and stay connected to their communities”
The AFL is contributing $2 million to the program from its Facilities Development Reserve. A contribution of $300,000 from Tattersalls’ TipStar was also part of the sponsorship to rural sporting facilities development.