In a boost to local sport and the regional economy, City of Greater Bendigo has been awarded $5,000 by the Morrison Government for the Bendigo Women’s Mountain Bike Challenge.
Liberal Senator for Victoria, Sarah Henderson, said the funding would support regional sport while boosting the local economy by attracting more visitors to the Bendigo area.
“The Bendigo Women’s Mountain Bike Challenge to be held on 1 May this year will bring the community together, attract visitors and stimulate the local economy after a challenging few years,” Senator Henderson said.
“Sport is the lifeblood of regional Victoria, and the Morrison Government is committed to funding events large and small which connect communities and inspire athletes of all ages.”
Minister for Sport, Richard Colbeck, said the program will have wide-ranging benefits for local communities.
“With funding of up to $50,000 available to host regionally based sporting events, the Morrison Government is helping ensure regional communities can bounce back after the devastating effects of the pandemic,” Minister Colbeck said.
“We’ve seen applications for events range from ‘come and try days’ to larger events such as state sporting championships that will engage the broader community and have flow on effects for local businesses.”
Liberal Candidate for Bendigo, Darin Schade, welcomed funding for the event which aims to encourage more women and girls to try cycling to support better mental health.
“The Bendigo Women’s & Girls MTB Challenge is a non-competitive all ages and ability event focused on inclusivity and support,” Mr Schade said.
“From 45 female participants at the first meet in 2017, the event now attracts 100-150 female participants, a great sign of things to come.”
All local councils in regional, rural and remote areas across Australia are able to apply for funding to host sporting events. Final applications for funding close on 29 April 2022.
Only the Morrison Government will continue to deliver a better future for Bendigo, and this is part of our plan to build a strong economy and a stronger future.
More information about the Regional Sport Events Fund can be found here.
24 April 2022