State Government’s facility upgrade grants well-supported by sports community

Tasmanian sports grounds and venues are about to get a facelift thanks to facility improvement hand-outs from the State Government. Find out how to get one >>

Dominic College grade 1 students Jameson King, 6 of Montrose and Charlotte Berry of Glenlusk ahead of the Football Tasmania release State of Play report. Picture: Zak Simmonds

THE State Government’s $10 million funding boost for sport infrastructure upgrades has hit the mark as organisations welcomed their chance to improve and develop facilities.

The Improving the Playing Field grants of between $25,000 and $250,000 will be made available to sporting organisations to upgrade amenities at facilities around Tasmania.

Local councils, sporting associations and clubs can apply for the grants for upgrades to change rooms, toilets and shower facilities, accessibility, lighting, security, fencing, scoreboards, drainage and other civil construction works.

“The Improving the Playing Field fund will build on the Government’s existing significant sporting grants programs,” said Minister for Sport Jane Howlett.

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Cricket Tasmania chief Dominic Baker said it was a “great initiative”.

“Sport across the state has been suffering through 2020, and as restrictions begin to lift it will be great to get some facility projects underway as well as providing stimulus to the construction industry,” he said.

AFL Tasmania encouraged football clubs to take advantage of the opportunity.

“This investment package enables our clubs and local government to give much-needed upgrades to football facilities and infrastructure right across the state,” said AFT Tasmania CEO Trish Squires.

“It will enhance the playing experiences of thousands of footballers and provide immense value to local communities.”

Football Tasmania CEO, Matt Bulkeley has lobbied for upgrades to soccer venues for months.

“It will give sports clubs better facilities and help support jobs – it’s a win-win,” he said.

“Football is Tasmania’s most popular team sport and one of our biggest challenges as the World Game continues to grow in Tasmania is finding adequate facilities for our increasing numbers.

“This announcement will see facilities upgraded right around the state, which will benefit a variety of sports, not just football.

“We would like to thank the Premier for his support and in particular, Jane Howlett, the Minister for Sport, who has done an amazing job helping the sports community deal with the unprecedented challenges of COVID-19.”