Cleeland has written to both Treasurer and Minister for Community Sport on behalf of the region’s sporting clubs.
She has asked the ministers to consider the clubs for funding opportunities as part of the $60 million Regional Community Sport Development Fund.
The fund was established earlier this year to deliver projects in regional towns following the cancellation of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in regional Victoria.
“Sporting clubs are the lifeblood of our regional towns, and it has been so disheartening to see them ignored by this Government for so long,” Cleeland said.
“While the cancellation of the Commonwealth Games was a slap in the face for regional communities across the state, this government now has a chance to show some support for our local sports clubs.”
Longwood Football Netball Club, Seymour Football Netball Club, Rushworth Bowls Club, and Murchison-Toolamba Football Netball Club are a few local organisations that have recently campaigned for funding to upgrade their facilities.
“Despite these clubs being previously overlooked at the state budget and numerous other opportunities, they have been incredibly determined in pushing to get these upgrades under way,” Cleeland said.
“So many of our clubs are in desperate need of new and fit-for-purpose equipment, as well as amenities that can best serve the community.
“Clubs like the Redlegs in Longwood have been relentlessly pushing for vital upgrades to their facilities, particularly to add female changerooms to deal with their growing netball program.
“Our local sports clubs are providing people with a strong sense of community, belonging, and an active lifestyle, and deserve all the support they can get.”
