Bruthen’s Netball courts have been resurfaced and upgraded to make it safer for players.
The Bruthen Netball Association secured a $10,000 grant from the Federal Government’s #lovegippsland Stronger Communities Program to help fund the project.
Local MP Darren Chester said the re-surface would ensure the safety of players and officials.
“This is great news for the Bruthen Netball Association who will once again be able to hold competitions in the Omeo and District Football and Netball League and be able to host finals,” Mr Chester said.
“The old courts had been deemed unsuitable by officials from Netball Victoria, so it was important for the safety of players and officials that this work was done.
“There will be many people in the Bruthen and district who will be pleased to see the resurfacing of the courts.
“The upgraded courts will encourage more women and girls to play netball in our community, promoting health active lifestyles.”
Mr Chester said he was also keen to secure additional funding for a major upgrade of recreation reserve facilities.
“Bruthen is growing as a community and the recreation reserve is an important hub for a range of activities,” Mr Chester said.
“Despite the great work by a team of volunteers, the facilities need additional funding and I’m keen to work with locals to attract more grant funding in the future.”
Bruthen Netball Association Vice President Lucy Leeming said the Bruthen Netball Club had been working behind the scenes as they endeavoured to create a safer, more comfortable and enjoyable environment for their netballers.
“The club has seen a swelling of numbers over the past few years with success both on and off the court,” Ms Leeming said.
“We want to create an atmosphere where women’s mental and physical health are at the centre of what we do.
“Netball is a team game, and when you have a positive, welcoming atmosphere around the club you get people coming back and the success on the court follows.
“The court upgrade is a huge help and the next step is to look at change rooms and toilet facilities for the club.