Money for Balmoral

A major update of facilities at Balmoral Recreation Reserve has had a boost with the Federal Government providing almost $500,000 for the project.

Member for Wannon Dan Tehan announced the funding as part of the second $30-million round of the government’s Community Sport Infrastructure Program.

He made the announcement at Balmoral Recreation Reserve along with representatives of Southern Grampians Shire Council, Balmoral Recreation Reserve Committee of Management and community members.

The money will go towards a ‘multi-purpose, multi-function’ centre to help support sporting and social activities in the community.

The project involves turning ageing infrastructure into a modern building including changerooms for male and female players and officials, and disability access.

It will also feature space for large community activities such as workshops and training sessions, regional forums and intergeneration events previously unavailable in Balmoral.

Mr Tehan said the Federal Government understood that the country’s success and prowess as a sporting nation began with grassroots sport.

“This is why we focused our investment on grassroots sporting facilities such as Balmoral Recreation Reserve,” he said.

“As outlined in the National Sports Plan, Sport 2030, grassroots sports help drive increased participation and promote social, health and community benefits of physical activity and sport – a key priority for our government.”

Mr Tehan said sport played an important role across Balmoral district and the benefits of the government investment in the facilities would be felt across the community.

“Sport 2030 recognises sport plays a significant role in Australia, from our biggest cities to regional communities like ours here in Balmoral,” he said.

“Our local sporting clubs are at the core of our country communities and I am proud to be able to support them through this grant program.

“I congratulate the committee and community on their successful application.”