Ministerial visit: Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell was at Rochester Tigers training on March 14 as he shone a spotlight on the need for sporting facility upgrades. Photos: Sam Birrell
Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell was in Rochester on Thursday, March 14, training with the Tigers as part of his commitment to train with every football netball club in the electorate.
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Mr Birrell is visiting clubs to highlight the need for the government to support sporting facility upgrades.
“Sports clubs are at the heart of many of our small towns and it is important for me to hear what matters to locals,” Mr Birrell said in a press release.
“It’s a fantastic way to meet people, many of whom are heavily involved in their community and know what’s needed in their town.
“Joining clubs for a meal after a hard night of training is a highlight of my week; you really get an understanding of the people in our community and how I can best serve our region in Canberra.”
Mr Birrell praised the Tigers on Facebook after the visit, highlighting the “strength and determination” of the club as he wished them the best for season 2024.
“Last year (Rochester) was awarded the AFL Community Club of the Year,” he wrote.
“It’s a club that provided continued connections following the devastating 2022 floods and is a hub that welcomes everyone to watch, play and, importantly, socialise.
“The club also provided many with a purpose during some of the toughest times.”
Marching orders: Mr Birrell taking instruction with the team.
Mr Birrell was raising awareness of the Federal Government’s Play Our Way program which will provide $200 million in grants for ‘projects that provide safe, inclusive and sustainable facilities, equipment, and initiatives as well as help women and girls remain involved in sport.’
Applications are open for the program which will run from 2024-25 to 2026-27.
“There’s significant challenges faced by many clubs across the region, and many are in desperate need of upgrades to their facilities,” Mr Birrell said.
“Governments on all levels need to support clubs to thrive; we need to change the game so everyone can play.
“Clubs are a hub not only for physical activity but also social connections.
“We face a significant challenge and I continue to work on a policy platform to help improve facilities for our grassroots community sporting clubs.”
Mr Birrell trained with more than a dozen football and netball clubs in 2023 and, along with Rochester, has trained with Undera, Yarrawonga Masters, and Stanhope during the 2024 pre-season.
