Fitness opportunities for mature-age women in Gin Gin and district received a boost with Council providing $4800 in funding to help repair the floor of the Kolan Shire Fitness Hall.
The grant was provided to the Kolan Shire National Fitness Club through Council’s Community Grants funding which offers up to $5000 to eligible organisations.
The hall is home to many local groups with circuit exercise classes, judo, martial arts and pilates held at the venue on a regular basis.
According to club secretary Annette Bust, the Kolan Shire National Fitness Club has been providing exercise opportunities for women across the region since 1967.
“Back in those days the National Fitness organisation was popular and groups like those in Gin Gin would train and compete against similar groups in other centres in sports like tennis,” she said.
“In more recent times the focus of the club has switched to mature age women and providing exercise and fitness programs that benefit this particular demographic.”
Annette said many groups used the hall which was also available for hire.
“The floor at the hall does require replacing with splinters in particular an issue for groups like judo and martial arts clubs which train barefoot,” she said.
“A new and more even surface is overdue and this funding is very welcome.”
Funding a big boost for organisations
Divisional representative Cr Wayne Honor said the funding was a great boost for organisations utilising the hall.
“Most of these groups are of modest financial means so this partnership approach by Council enables these groups and clubs to continue to provide appropriate and safe facilities for their recreational activities,” he said.
Community services portfolio spokesperson Cr Tracey McPhee said $70,000 had been set aside in the current budget to assist local community groups and organisations.
“The grants programs offer a helping hand with funding to enable these groups to push through these trying times and to continue the necessary services and opportunities they provide,” Cr McPhee said.
“It’s important these groups feel supported and valued in the work and connectivity they bring to the community and our residents.”
Cr McPhee said about $29,000 had been allocated to recently announced community grants projects, with applications currently open for the second of three funding rounds.
Information on Council grants can be found here.
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