Junior athletes across regional Queensland will soon have greater access to skills, equipment and important safety programs thanks to almost $120,000 in collective funding from Glencore’s Junior Sports Development Program (JSDP).
Eighteen junior sporting clubs across the state have received JSDP grants of up to $7,500 each, with the aim of enhancing the sustainability and strength of organisations in the areas around Glencore’s coal operations.
Glencore’s Social Performance Manager, Craig Strudwick, said that since the program’s inception in 2012, Glencore has been able to help with over 250 calls for funding assistance from local clubs and organisations across Queensland.
“It’s wonderful to have such a high level of interest in these grants and to be in a position to provide a diverse mix of sporting organisations with funding for key projects,” Craig said.
“The JSDP funding provides clubs with the opportunity to develop new programs, improve first aid and safety practices, purchase vital equipment and upgrade facilities.
“Junior sporting clubs are essential to our communities, not only nurturing physical health through active play but also cultivating mental resilience and providing a supportive social network for our youngest community members.
“We’re delighted to be able to play a part in helping junior sports groups continue to deliver those benefits across our regional communities.”
Clermont Isolated Children’s Parents’ Association (ICPA) is one of the many organisations set to benefit from this round of grants, having received $7,500 in funding to host the 2024 Clermont ICPA Sports Camp.
“Thanks to this Glencore grant, we’re able to bring together rural and isolated children and help them develop not only important sports skills but also social skills that will empower them for life,” Clermont ICPA Sports Camp Sponsorship Coordinator, Michelle Vogel said.
“It’s amazing to see these kids experiencing team sports and life away from home for the first time, surrounded by peers their own age.
“Living in rural areas is a privilege, but it’s important to provide opportunities for these children to experience life beyond their small communities. The Clermont ICPA Sports Camp allows them to step into the world ‘’in town’, learn from professional coaches, and try their hand at different team sports.
“We appreciate Glencore’s support and can’t wait to see the excitement of 104 rural children in 2024!”
| The full list of QLD JSDP grants includes: • $7,500 for a grassroots equine safety upgrade at Mackay & District Hack & Pony Club • $7,500 for coaching and teaching resources at Capella State School P&C Association • $5,098 for a 3-day campdrafting event at Belyando Performance Horse Inc. • $7,500 to replace school sports equipment at Valkyrie State School P&C Association • $7,500 to complete athletics upgrades at Clermont State School • $ 7,500 to host the 2024 Clermont ICPA Sports Camp • $4,868 for the Peer Ping Pong Project at Capella State High School • $4,900 to host a ‘Come and Try’ day at Wandoan Clay Association • $7,480 to upgrade the training room at Clermont Rifle Club • $6,990 to upgrade the wicket at Rolleston Cricket Club • $7,500 to host a ‘Juniors Skeet Meet’ at Mackay Sarina Clay Target Club • $7,375 for shaded seating area at Capella Cricket Club Inc. • $7,391 for infrastructure repairs and upgrades at Pioneer Valley Cricket Association Inc. • $7,500 to upgrade showjumping equipment at Taroom Wandoan Active Riders • $7,475 for marquees & equipment storage at Capella Cattledogs Rugby Union Inc. • $5,189 for children’s water fountain and ball machine at Springsure Tennis Club Inc. • $2,767 to upgrade training nets at Clermont Junior Cricket Club • $7,500 for portable panels for junior horsemanship clinics at Capella Campdraft Association The next round of Glencore’s JSDP grants will open in March 2024. |
