The Telstra Footy Country Grants program has unveiled its second round of grant applicants after a wealth of clubs across Victoria — with a significant portion in our region — receiving a bevy of funding for various projects last month.
With about $100,000 shared throughout Victoria’s clubs this time around, a further five teams have found their pockets that little bit fuller.
There were no grand-scale builds on the ticket as this week’s set of handouts were finalised, but Deniliquin, Finley, Mooroopna Junior Football Club, Shepparton Swans and Tatura got what was on their wish list.
The total combined volume of the grants has come in at about $5400, according to AFL Goulburn Murray’s Sam Monaghan.
“With $100,000 between Victorian clubs, there was a limited call for this round based on a few receiving substantial amounts last time,” Monaghan said.
“Some were looking for around $500, whereas others were up around $1500 in this round.
“We always knew there would be limited funds for all regions and we were very excited that we were able to get a portion.
“Having Murray league clubs in the mix with Deni and Finley was great as well.”
Monaghan went into some detail on what had been successfully applied for by local clubs, with one going beyond the usual bounds of equipment and supplies.
“We had things like a line marking machine for boundaries, some point-of-sale systems for EFTPOS transactions and a bain-marie to help clubs provide hot meals,” Monaghan said.
“Mooroopna’s was around running a multicultural program they’re looking to operate with disadvantaged people.
“They want to look after their young people within the club, which is really good in terms of creating that inclusive space for our young people.
“I’ll be working closely with that program and I’m really looking forward to it.”
Applications for the third round of grants, which are set to feature similar allocations to the second round, close on Thursday, June 13.
The program is set to continue through to the end of 2028 as part of a five-year agreement between the AFL and Telstra, with $2 million set to reach local clubs annually in that time.
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