COMMUNITY sport in New South Wales is the big winner, with the NSW Government awarding $4.49 million through the Local Sport Grant Program to more than 550 sporting clubs across New South Wales.

Gravesend Pony Club will buy a trailer and cross-country jumps with grants totalling $12,692, with club president Mick Barwick saying the grant allows the club to buy much-needed equipment.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to receive this funding,” Barwick said.

“The grant will allow us to purchase a much-needed, multi-purpose trailer along with a new set of cross-country jumps.

“These additions will significantly improve our ability to run events, transport equipment, and provide better training opportunities for our riders.

“For a small rural club like ours, this kind of support makes a real difference,” he said.

“It helps us continue to grow participation, build skills, and ensure our facilities remain safe and enjoyable for all members.

“We’re very grateful for the investment in our club and the wider community,” Barwick said.

The funding was awarded to 586 projects that will increase participation in sport and active recreation across New South Wales.

The Local Sport Grant Program provides grants for minor facility upgrades, new equipment and programs that support and encourage participation in sport and active recreation.

Gravesend Pony Club members are celebrating being named one of more than 550 sporting clubs to benefit from the NSW Government’s Local Sport Grant Program (Image Supplied).

Grants of up to $20,000 were available, with $50,000 available in each electorate.

Regionally, Narrabri Dolphins Water Polo Club received $3233 for its Making a Splash program to grow junior water polo and Walgett Rugby Union Club received just over $16,000 to purchase a new scrum machine and upgrade toilet facilities.

Inverell Basketball Association will upgrade equipment with its $6339 grant and Inverell Rugby Club

has been awarded $2609 for field maintenance.

Gunnedah Junior Rugby Club received $9050 for coaching upskilling, education and female coach recruitment and Gunnedah Touch will purchase an equipment trailer with a $17,870 grant.

Armidale Athletics received $4500 for its Better Timing Solutions program and Glen Innes Elks Rugby Union Football Club spectator will upgrade seating with a $15,860 grant.

Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said the NSW Government is committed to supporting all people, communities and organisations across New South Wales to enjoy the benefits of sport and active recreation.

“The Local Sport Grant Program helps us achieve this by providing vital funds to community sporting organisations to invest in facility minor upgrades, new equipment and programs,” Mr Kamper said.

“With community sport budgets tight and clubs ever more reliant on volunteers, this funding will mean teams can purchase new jerseys and clubs can host events like gala days or come-and-try days.

“I congratulate the more than 550 sports organisations across New South Wales that were successful in securing funding and commend them for their commitment to our collective health, wellbeing and sense of identity.”

For further information, including the list of the successful projects, visit Local Sport Grant Program.