Clubs get help to beat drought

CASEY’S sporting clubs will be kept alive and thriving with new drought-relief funding coming their way.
Cranbourne MP Jude Perera announced on Monday that the City of Casey had received $50,000 for drought-relief projects under the State Government’s Drought Relief for Community Sport and Recreation program.
“Councils, sporting associations and local clubs, as well as the State Government, have all been working hard to keep local sport strong and healthy in this drought,” Mr Perera said.
“This funding will not only help keep this year’s competitions alive but will be important in helping find solutions for the future to ensure grassroots sport remains a strong and integral part of local communities in years to come.”
Pearcedale Football Club president Harry Reints said the funding was fantastic news for clubs that had been struggling to stay afloat over the past year without adequate grounds to train or play on.
“It has been a tough year. The ground is not up to standard in comparison to others in the league,” Mr Reints said.
“There has been a lot of hard work by individuals to get the ground up to scratch and lobby for grants and to council. Now we are finally starting to get an allocation of funds and works have started on the new pavilion.
“I am so happy for the footy club and to everyone involved. It is all finally coming to fruition.”
Projects funded in the first round of the program include the planting of drought-resistant grasses, installation of bores and water tanks, the provision of water to sports grounds and replacing grassed playing surfaces with synthetic options.
Minister for Sport and Recreation James Merlino said the government was committed to tackling the effects of the drought.
“Local sports and sporting clubs are often the cornerstone of our communities and these drought-relief funds highlight what can be achieved when government, sporting bodies, local councils and communities work in partnership,” he said.