Lace up the boots and get back out there, with a little help

30 July 2020

Grants of up to $20,000 to support local not-for-profit sporting clubs to purchase equipment and carry out minor work are now available, delivering further economic stimulus as Ipswich recovers from COVID-19 closures.

The COVID-19 Active Restart Infrastructure Recovery Fund has allocated $500,000 in total for Ipswich with the individual grants of up to $20,000 to help clubs back on to their feet after COVID-19 had impacted their seasons.

Mayor Teresa Harding said that sporting and community organisations are the lifeblood of Ipswich, and that this grant was just one way that each level of Government is pitching in for support.

“Clubs and organisations are at the centre of our community, connecting us with others, and providing us with important services and places to gather,” Mayor Harding said.

“The volunteers who run these organisations deserve to be applauded for their hard work during these challenging times, and it is important that they receive the support that their clubs need, both from the State Government and from Council.”

Minister for Sport Mick de Brenni said the $15.5 million State Government program would support up to 3,000 not-for-profit sport and recreation clubs and organisations as they return to play.

“Thanks to the hard work of Queenslanders, the Chief Health Officer has been able to ease restrictions and support the safe restart of community sport and recreation,” he said.

“The extra support will enable clubs to keep welcoming back members so they can swing a bat, kick a ball, or cheer on their local team.”

Division 3 Councillor Andrew Fechner encouraged clubs to apply for all grants.

“Council understands just how important clubs are to our community, and we are getting the message out there that support is available during these challenging times,” Cr Fechner said.

“If your club house needs a fresh coat of paint or some new equipment, the Active Restart Infrastructure Recovery Fund can be accessed to spend on improvements and to get your players back out onto the field.

“Through Council, a total of $300,000 is available in the Ipswich Community Repair and Replacement Fund to help community and sporting organisations upgrade their facilities using local contractors.

“A further $100,000 is available through the Ipswich Community Operational Support Fund, which will help eligible community groups pay operational costs, inventory and marketing or membership expenses.”

Applications for council’s COVID-19 funding programs close at the end of August.

The Ipswich City Council Grant Finder is a free service which compiles a list of all available grants for local businesses, community groups, not-for-profits and individuals.

For more information on Active Restart Infrastructure Recovery Fund, visit www.covid19.qld.gov.au/returntoplay