Hervey Bay junior sports stars on the up

NINETEEN young athletes from the Hervey Bay area have received a funding boost that will help them compete at state and national competitions.

soccer ball on grass field during daytime — Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt congratulated the local sports stars, as well as 31 recipients from the Bundaberg region.

NOW READ: Hervey Bay man to tackle 800km jet ski trek for charity

Mr Pitt said sport played an important role in communities.

“I am pleased that so many of our athletes are receiving support through the latest round of the Local Sporting Champions program,” Mr Pitt said.

“We have junior sportspeople participating in a diverse range of sports – rugby league, hockey, football, netball, volleyball, touch football, basketball, softball, table tennis and pony club – and despite the current challenges of COVID-19, they are all dedicated to their training so they can achieve their sporting goals.

ALSO READ: Brisbane roars to the Fraser Coast for pre-season exhibition match

“No doubt many of our local athletes have been inspired by the Australian athletes at the Tokyo Olympics, and who knows, maybe we’ll see one of these athletes at the Brisbane Olympics in 2032?

“Participating in these events can be quite expensive, especially where long-distance travel or inter-state quarantine is required, so this funding will help to ease that pressure on local families, ensure our sporting champions can represent Hinkler with pride, and progress in their chosen sport.”

ALSO READ: New clubhouse opened at Fraser Coast sports precinct

The grants of between $550 and $750 help support young athletes, coaches, officials and competitors aged 12-18 participating in state, national or international championships.

The grants can be put toward the cost of travel, accommodation, uniforms or equipment to participate at the nominated championships.