Thursday, 16 May 2024
Recognising the pivotal role sport plays in local communities, Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has called on the Labor Government to ensure next month’s State Budget includes significant investment in regional sporting infrastructure.
Ms Cooke used an address in the NSW Parliament to highlight the need for targeted investment in sporting projects that reduce barriers to participation, and nurture talent, particularly for women and girls.
“For those of us in the regions, sport is a big part of our social fabric, and I’m calling on the Treasurer to ensure next month’s State Budget reflects a commitment to ongoing investment in regional sporting projects,” Ms Cooke said.
“I was proud to be a part of a Coalition Government that invested in sport in the regions, especially in projects that increased participation, promoted healthy lifestyles, and fostered vibrant communities.
“Projects to have recently come to fruition thanks to Coalition investment include six new netball courts in Cowra, new female amenities at the West Wyalong Golf Club, while the community in Ungarie are also cheering following the completion of their new netball courts.
“Others of note recently include tennis courts at Narrandera, and the world-class Marrar Campdraft Arena; all of which represent an investment by the former Government in the health, well-being, and future success of our regional communities,” she said.
Ms Cooke also highlighted the importance of funding programs like Local Sport Grants, along with the need for ongoing government support for the Regional Academies of Sport network.
“Whether you’re competing in the local comp, or have your sights set on bigger things, it’s just so important that we have the infrastrucutre and facilities we need, to support sport and recreation in our towns and villages,” Ms Cooke said.
“The importance of these kinds of investments was again reinforced for me when I stopped by a netball training session at the Ganmain Grong Grong Matong Lions Football Netball Club, following news our community had been successful in securing a $1.7 million investment to go towards building female change rooms and amenities at the club.
“The NSW State Budget is just around the corner, and I urge the Government to provide the funding necessary to ensure equitable access to sporting resources and opportunities for regional communities, continues well into the future,” she said.
For a transcript of the speech click: here
For video of the speech click: here
Photograph caption: Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke with members of the Ganmain Grong Grong Matong Lions Football Netball Club.
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