More country football and netball clubs are in for a big score with upgrades to ovals, pavilions and courts on the way thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.

Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence today visited Anakie to announce more $197,000 towards a new netball court at Anakie Recreation Reserve and Werribee to also announce $200,000 for Wyndham City Council to install new oval lighting at Galvin Park home of the Werribee Centrals ‘Centurions’ Football and Netball Club.

The two upgrades are among 14 new projects to share in more than $2.3 million in funding from the 2021-22 Country Football and Netball Program.

The program is a partnership with Netball Victoria, the Australian Football League, and AFL Victoria and was established in 2005 to help netball and football clubs across the state to meet growing demand. So far, the program has delivered more than $34.5 million to support more than 550 projects.

Other successful grants in this round include $191,000 to East Gippsland Shire Council to install a new LED Sports Lighting at Lindenow Football Netball Club and $200,000 to Golden Plains Shire Council to redevelop Linton Oval.

Better sport and recreation facilities make it easier for players, coaches, umpires and supporters of all abilities to get involved in local sport and lead healthy and active lifestyles.

The Labor Government has invested more than $1.1 billion in community sports infrastructure since 2014.

Quote attributable to Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence

“Country football and netball is the lifeblood of regional communities and plays a vital role in maintaining a positive spirit in good and tough times. We’re delighted to back even more projects that can make a real difference in people’s lives.”

Quote attributable to Member for Lara John Eren

“The Anakie Roos are an integral part of this close-knit regional community. They deserve modern and safe facilities they can be proud of.”

Quote attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas

“It’s fantastic that we can support clubs like the Centurions and their many players and supporters – this will allow Werribee Centrals to continue to grow and serve their community.”

Quote attributable to Head of AFL Victoria Ben Kavenagh

“The Country Football and Netball Program plays an important role in helping communities to benefit from new and upgraded facilities, which helps local sporting clubs thrive.”

Quote attributable to Netball Victoria Chief Executive Officer Rosie King

“The Country Football Netball Program has been a wonderful initiative that keeps on delivering outcomes for our community right across Victoria.”