05 Dec 2017 Whittlesea Review, Whittlesea (General News) MEMBER for Northern Victoria, Jaclyn Symes, has encouraged applications from local clubs for the next round of the $4.6 million Sporting Club Grants Program. The Sporting Club Grants Program gives clubs the chance to secure grants to buy new sports uniforms and equipment, or to expand the skills of coaches and officials. Already, the program has provided over $2.8 million to more than 2,000 sport and active recreation organisations across the state. Grants of up to $1,000 are available to buy new team uniforms or equipment, while grants of up to $2,000 are available to expand the skills of coaches and officials. Clubs can also receive up to $5,000 for initiatives that strengthen their operations and grow their membership. There are also grants to support travel and accommodation costs over a 12 month period for athletes, coaches, officials or teams that are required to travel to train or compete whether its their local competition or an Aboriginal sporting festival. The grants help to make sure our community clubs are as strong as possible thats what these grants are all about, Ms Symes said. I encourage all local clubs to make the most of this support and apply online now for new uniforms, better equipment or training for their coaches. Giving administrators and volunteers opportunities to improve their skills will also give our clubs the edge to make sure that theyre sustainable going forward. The new Aboriginal Participation category is specifically working to break down barriers and make it easier for Aboriginal Victorians to get involved in grassroots sport. Applications for round six are now open until January 24, 2018. For more information or to apply online, visit sport.vic.gov.au. Licensed by Copyright Agency. You may only copy or communicate this work with a licence.