NORTHERN Victorias sporting shooting clubs are set to receive a significant funding boost after a recent announcement naming 18 clubs in Northern Victoria who are set to receive a Shooting Sports Facilities Program grant. Member for Northern Victoria, Jaclyn Symes says the grants will help 18 clubs in country Victoria to improve safety, recruit new members, better accommodate people of all abilities and strengthen pathways from the grassroots level to the elite arena. Victoria has a proud history of producing some of Australias top shooters. Shooting sports clubs are where communities connect and enjoy the benefits of outdoor recreation, and promote the safe and responsible use of firearms. This grant will ensure that clubs in Benalla, Yarra Ranges, Numurkah, Pine Grove, Shepparton, Wangaratta, Wodonga, Mt Hotham, Strathbogie, Nagambie and Seymour have the resources and the facilities they need to become more inclusive and sustainable, Ms Symes said. Victoria has a proud history of producing national stars and by investing in clubs like these, we just might be helping identify the next Olympic gold medallist. We want our sports clubs to be safe, modern and welcoming to all members no matter their ability, their gender or where they live. Shooting sports clubs are where Victorians get together and make friends, people learn the importance of safe and responsible firearm use and aspiring shooters become elite stars. The Labor Governments $100 million Community Sports Infrastructure Fund is ensuring all Victorians have access to safe, modern sport and recreation facilities. The government is also rolling out 1,000 lifesaving defibrillators at grassroots clubs in case of emergency. Among the clubs across Northern Victoria to receive grants are Shepparton Amateur Pistol Club, Shepparton Small Bore and Air Rifle Club and Sporting Shooters Association of Australia Victoria (Shepparton Branch).