Community Grant Funding Scheme Open for 2016

Past President of Medowie FC, and well-known local GP, Dr Paul Burford
past President of Medowie FC, and well-known local GP, Dr Paul Burford

APPLICATIONS are now open for groups to apply for the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership Grant.

Incorporated and not-for-profit groups can apply for capital works or equipment, with a minimum amount of $2500.

Proud recipient of the 2015 Grant, the Medowie Football Club (or, Soccer) is benefiting greatly from the $15 000 they were awarded.

Immediate past President of Medowie FC, and well-known local GP, Dr Paul Burford led the committee that applied for the grant.

The club’s situation was quite dire when they applied for the grant last year.

Due to a lack of funds, the field had not had the necessary upkeep over at least five years.

Current President, Ms Cheren Hall, told News Of The Area that during the 2015 season, “We couldn’t always get on the oval due to torrential rain; we had to reschedule some of our games and play at Raymond Terrace, which is not ideal for our club.”

The $15 000 they were awarded, combined with additional Port Stephens Council funds, meant that Yulong Oval the Club’s home ground, could be top-soiled, levelled, trenches cleared and dug, storm water diverted, and the sprinkler system recovered and repaired.

Mr Michael Sloane, Secretary of the Club told News Of The Area, “It was fantastic for our club. We hadn’t had any ground improvements in five years; there was a lot of negativity last year due to the cancellations of games and this had an impact on morale.”

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Mr Sloane said, “The Council has been really great, the Club is now in a great position, the best it has been in for a long time.”

With over 400 members, catering for all ages form Under 5s to over 35s, and a strong presence in children’s, women’s, and men’s competitions, the Club is in a good position for 2016 and beyond.

Indicating the success of the ground improvements, during the current season no games or training sessions have been cancelled despite a few episodes of heavy rain.

More information about the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership Grant, including how to apply, can be found at:  www.communitybuildingpartnership.nsw.gov.au or through the State Member’s office: portstephens@parliament.nsw.gov.au

 

By Heather SHARP

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