Press Releases

Twenty-five local sporting organisations from across Gippsland South have been awarded grants of up to $2,500 under the Victorian Health Promotion Foundation 2011/12 Active Clubs Program, Deputy Premier and Member for Gippsland South Peter Ryan announced today. Read More

Almost $12 million is on offer to emergency services groups for the purchase of vital resources such as rescue equipment, trucks and facility upgrades, Deputy Premier and Member for Gippsland South Peter Ryan said today

Mr Ryan said the Coalition Government’s $11.95 million Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program was offering grants of up to $100,000 to ensure local volunteers are equipped to respond to emergencies and natural disasters.

“Emergency services volunteers play a crucial role in protecting lives and property and the Victorian Coalition Government is pleased to provide record funding to boost the capability of local volunteers to respond to emergencies,” Mr Ryan said.

“From surf lifesavers to fire fighters, our volunteers are the backbone of Victoria’s emergency services, so we want to ensure they have the best equipment available to help them carry on their vital work.

“By committing more money for equipment and upgrades than ever before, the Coalition Government is ensuring our emergency services have the resources they need to continue their vital work for the community.”

Mr Ryan said the grants may be used to pay for upgrades to group facilities or for the equipment needed to assist in emergencies, such as trucks, trailers and generators.

“The VESEP will also contribute $2 for every $1 of funding raised by local volunteer groups,” Mr Ryan said.

The VESEP grants program is open to members of the Country Fire Authority, Victoria State Emergency Service, Life Saving Victoria, the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association and other eligible volunteer groups.

Each agency will distribute specific guidelines on selection criteria, application forms and about application lodgement dates to its members and applications will be assessed by a panel of representatives from government and emergency services organisations.

Further information is available from www.justice.vic.gov.au, or email vesep@justice.vic.gov.au.

Media contact: Ben Bulmer 0437 108 870 Read More

Deputy Premier and Member for Gippsland South Peter Ryan said today that the 2012 Victorian Hunting guide is now available online and thousands of copies are being mailed to Victoria’s 40,000 licensed hunters over the coming week, just in time for the start of the upcoming duck season.  Read More

Community-based clubs and organisations across Gippsland can apply for funding to purchase new sports uniforms under the Victorian Coalition Government’s Sporting Uniform Grants Program, Deputy Premier and Member for Gippsland South Peter Ryan said today.

Mr Ryan said clubs had until 1 March 2012 to apply for grants worth up to $1000.

“The grants can be used to purchase various essential items including football boots, jumpers, tracksuits, leotards, runners, hats or bathers,” Mr Ryan said.

“The program contributes to the Victorian Government’s sport and recreation policy priorities of increasing participation and supporting grass roots sport and recreation clubs to create physically active communities and to nurture talent.

“Club sport plays a big part in the life of many Gippsland communities and team uniforms are more than just colours, they represent local sporting traditions and community pride.

“Being part of a team provides a socially valued role for participants and creates a sense of community membership.”

Mr Ryan said funding preference would be given to projects that:

· increase participation in communities with existing low levels of participation in sport and physical activity;

· provide uniforms or equipment for competitors and active participants (including umpires) rather than for non-playing officials; and

· include a quote providing details of the type, number and cost of uniforms to be purchased.

Minister for Sport and Recreation Hugh Delahunty said new uniforms can go a long way toward boosting team morale and connecting communities.

“The grants also help attract and accommodate new members, nurture talent and overcome financial barriers to being more active, more often,” Mr Delahunty said.

Guidelines and application forms can be accessed online at www.grants.dpcd.vic.gov.au or by phoning the grants information line on 1300 366 356.

Media contact: Ben Bulmer 0437 108 870  Read More

Flood-damaged community infrastructure in Hepburn Shire will be repaired with the help of $99,000 in funding from the Victorian Coalition Government. Read More

Soccer fans in Morwell are in for a treat with the announcement that Melbourne Heart will play a fixture game against Wellington Phoenix at the Latrobe City Sports and Entertainment Stadium in December. Read More