Benalla Young Sportsperson's Trust supports future soccer star Meagan Webster

By Simon Ruppert

Jun 29, 2021

Up-and-coming soccer star Meagan Webster will be able to continue to pursue her dream thanks to funding from the Benalla Sportsperson's Trust.

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Having supported her in the past the trust has been able to donate another $500 to help her participate in the sport she loves.

Playing for the Moreland Zebras, based in Coburg, while undertaking Year 12 in Benalla the travel costs are ongoing - and Meagan said she could not continue to play without this type of support.

“This assistance is massive,” Webster said.

“I’ve been involved with BYST for a few years now. They’ve been very generous and so have their sponsors.

“I’ve had support from the Farmers Arms last year to go to Queensland for soccer, which was amazing.

“I couldn’t do what I’m doing now if it wasn't for the community support that is ongoing.

“Playing in Coburg means a lot of travelling, and I am very thankful for the help.”

Trustee Bill Sykes said on top of awarding Meagan $500 the trust was also acknowledging the generous ongoing support from Benalla Rural City, who have donated $2000 this year.

“And the Rotary Club of Benalla, who have given $500 this year.

“Over the years Rotary, BRCC, the Lions club, GMCU and a number of other businesses have been very strong supporters of the Benalla Young Sportsperson’s Trust.

“Our major sponsor has been Farmers Arms, both the patrons, who donated over $5000 towards the trust.

“And then through the Farmers Arms we access to a couple of thousand dollars a year from the Aussie community chest.

“And the other great sponsor has been the Royal Hotel.”

Benalla Rural City Councillor Bernie Hearn said it was an important role of council to support young people in the community.

“It's very expensive for young sportspeople to be able to afford the money that it takes to travel to sporting events and this just eases the burden,” Cr Hearn said.

Rotarian Jan Crowthers said the money donated came from catering community events.

“This year we lost our major catering job at the races because of the revamp, then we lost the V8 supercars because of COVID,” Ms Crowthers said.

“But we did have the Historics and we were able to disperse a bit to our local community, which we weren't able to last year.”