Media Releases

23 May 2008 - Deakin Sport and Recreation Boost

The Rudd Government will provide over $850,000 to upgrade three Deakin electorate sport and recreation facilities.

The Glen Park Community Centre, Croydon Little Athletics Club and the Nunawading Gymnastics and Sports Club will benefit from funding in the 2008-09 Budget.

The Minister for Sport, Kate Ellis, and the Member for Deakin, Mike Symon, said the funding reflected the Government's strong commitment to developing and supporting participation in grassroots community sport and recreation activities.

"The funding will ensure local sport and recreation facilities are more accessible and attractive to the wider community," Ms Ellis said.

The Government will provide:

• $500,000 to develop the Glen Park Community Centre. This non-profit organisation promotes healthy communities through a range of recreational, social and learning programs.
• $150,000 to the Croydon Little Athletics Club to upgrade facilities for the club.s 500 members and other groups using the club facilities.
• $200,000 to upgrade the Nunawading Gymnastics and Sports Club at Walker Park Reserve. It is used by numerous local gymnastics clubs for both state and local competitions. Gymnastics coaches and officials also use the centre for training.

"Investment in sport and recreation is an investment in the health and wellbeing of the nation," Ms Ellis said.

Mr Symon said sporting clubs were the lifeblood of local communities and helped bring people together.

"The Rudd Government's Budget delivers improved facilities and opportunities for local sports that will encourage more Australians to participate in active sport and recreation," Mr Symon said.