Queensland sport and recreation clubs which will share $1.8 million in round two of the $2000 COVID SAFE Active Clubs Kickstart program which is part of the Palaszczuk Government’s COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan

Round two was launched today by Sport Minister Stirling Hinchliffe, Member for Rockhampton Barry O’Rourke and the President of Gracemere Junior Rugby League Club.

Mr O’Rourke said in the Rockhampton region, 19 clubs had received $2000 grants.

“The COVID SAFE Active Clubs Kickstart program gives local clubs and their volunteers the leg up they need to get back on the field,” Mr O’Rourke said.

“I’m really pleased to see 19 clubs like Gracemere Junior Rugby League Club share in $38,000 in the Rockhampton region.

“At Gracemere Junior Rugby League, $2000 will help make the club COVID compliant with signage and the ongoing cost of face protection masks and hand sanitiser.

“This investment means getting clubs back to what they do best and bringing our region’s communities together in a COVID safe way.”

Gracemere Junior Rugby League President Matt Bethel said without the support of the Active Clubs Kickstart program the club would have faced difficulty.

“Our current funds have been depleted through the cancellation of junior sport during the COVID period.” Mr Bethel said.

“This support has the club back helping young people and families of the Gracemere area to come along and enjoy the sport of rugby league including all the introduction programs, weekly training and competitions.

“It helps promote social inclusion within a healthy and happy environment.”

Minister for Sport Stirling Hinchliffe said the Palaszczuk Government had made sure as many clubs as possible across Queensland could benefit from our Economic Recovery Plan.

“We’ve made the clubs that weren’t successful last year a priority for funding,” Mr Hinchliffe said.

“The $2000 can be used for equipment like bats, balls, racquets and helmets or operational expenses like electricity bills, ground maintenance, cleaning products and COVID signage.

“Alternatively, the grant might help with developing COVID-SAFE event plans, providing coaching, accreditation or financial management training.”

Mr Hinchliffe said in this round 900 Queensland Sport and Recreation Clubs had shared in $1.8 million.

“This investment boosts the capability of clubs and volunteers so they can provide the best possible experience for members,” Mr Hinchliffe said.

“We’ve listened to the feedback from clubs and focussed on the resources that help clubs and volunteers work efficiently”

The Active Clubs Kickstart program is part of the $51.3 million COVID-SAFE Restart Plan which has supported the sport and active recreation industry through the global pandemic.

Last year, 3830 organisations across Queensland received $2000.