Point Cook Centrals could be supported with a grant of up to $12,000 to help cover the ground hire if the Labor party is successful at the November state election.
The funding will be used to secure ground access at a facility adjacent to the club’s home base at Featherbrook Oval, which is currently at capacity, and limiting both training and match day activity.
“We thank Mat and the state government for the grant, which will help us secure additional ground access for our junior football program,” Club president Todd Van Blommestein said.
Mr Van Blommestein says local sporting groups “build community” and help bring people together to forge new social connection, especially in a relatively new community like Point Cook.
“Local sport also provides opportunities for healthy physical activity for men, women and people of all ages, and particularly for local boys and girls,” he said.
“Over time it will provide an outlet for these kids, helping them have a stake in the community and to avoid getting drawn into anti-social activities.
“Off-field we are growing fast, especially our junior football and netball programs. As a local community organisation, our volunteers work extremely hard to support the club, but ultimately the club needs funding to continue to operate.
“Most funding comes from our generous sponsorship partners, but this grant from the state government will help us expand opportunities for local boys and girls to play football.”
Point Cook Labor candidate Mathew Hilakari said community sport is the lifeblood of so many suburbs and brings families together through a shared love of sport.
“Across Point Cook Labor will keep building the community infrastructure that we need,” Mr Hilakari said.
“Every parent wants to see their kids active and engaged, local sporting clubs are the heart of so many communities,” Community Sport minister Ros Spence said.
