This month the Complete Parts and @ The Coalface $500 Community Gift goes to the Sarina & District Athletics Club. After two years of inactivity the Club has triumphantly returned, thanks to the unwavering support of local volunteers and businesses.

The Club’s rejuvenation in 2024 was no small feat. With a fresh committee at the helm, the task of updating the athletics field, membership processes, marketing strategies and financial management was daunting. However, the community’s dedication made it possible.

Nicole McCowan, the Club Secretary, highlighted the immense effort required to restore their base of operations, the athletics field.

“The field had been neglected for over a year, so bringing it up to standard was a monumental task,” Nicole explained.

“We had tractors, slashers and mowers working tirelessly, alongside many volunteers. The field looks fantastic now.”

In addition to physical upgrades, the Club modernised its operations, including reactivating the website and streamlining membership processes.

“Thanks to Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, we now have a Square cash register and an iPad, making it much easier and more secure to handle payments for memberships, food, and uniforms.”

Currently, the Club boasts 47 paid members, with around twenty more on trial memberships. The community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive, and the Club is grateful for the support it has received.

Nicole shared the Club’s future plans and goals now that it’s up and running again.

“Ideally, we would love to upgrade the entire track to a Tartan Track and encourage more members of the community to become coaches and volunteers to keep it running.

“This year is all about finding our feet, but we have grand plans for next year.”

Community sports clubs like the Sarina & District Athletics Club play a crucial role in promoting health, fitness, and social interaction within local communities. They offer a sense of belonging and provide a positive outlet for children and adults alike to develop their athletic skills, make new friends, and engage in regular physical activity.

The Club is also looking forward to securing sponsorships to organise club shirts for their athletes. The Community Gift donation will go towards supporting this initiative.

Nicole emphasised the importance of community involvement and support for the Club moving forward.

“We love volunteers – whether it’s in the canteen, helping set up or pack up, and getting involved in coaching. If there are any businesses out there that would like to donate to our club, we are always looking for canteen food, new equipment and cleaning supplies for the bathrooms.”

Training sessions are held every Monday from 3:30 to 5:00pm and Club Days occur on the last Sunday of each month. Everyone is welcome to join. For membership inquiries and further information, visit their website at www.revolutionise.com.au/sarinaanddistrict or visit the Sarina & District Athletics Club on Facebook.