Local grassroots sporting organisations are the big winners from a recent statewide injection of $4.6 million from the NSW Government, according to Member for Oatley Mark Coure.
"Grassroots sporting clubs are a vital part of the St George community," Mr Coure said
"These grants will provide essential funds to help sporting clubs increase participation as we slowly ease social distancing restrictions and see a return of community-based team sport."
Ray Barbi, President of the St George Basketball Association, who received $2,000 of funding, said that the Local Sports Grant program would help the Association run workshops that will improve the skills of volunteer coaches and referees.
"This funding will ensure our coaches and referees can upskill and provide the best possible experiences for players and spectators," Mr Barbi said.
Through the Local Sports Grant program, the Oatley electorate secured over $30,000 in total funding for nine community projects.
Some of the major successful projects include $10,000 for St George Junior Baseball Club to construct permanent dugouts at the Evatt Park Main Diamond, $8,000 to Lugarno Football Club to subsidise female player registration and uniforms, $6,600 for Oatley Football Club to run skill workshops, training equipment and software and $2,030 to Peakhurst United FC.
Mr Coure also announced that other local sporting clubs would share in an extra $29,000 of funding through one-off grants for much-needed community infrastructure upgrades.