Rural Travel Fund applications close December 3

Getting involved in regular sporting competitions is always a challenge for people living in rural communities. Sport and Recreation New Zealand (SPARC) can help with the costs of travelling. Those who represent a rural sporting team competing in a local competition need to get their pens out now.

Applications are invited from all rural sports teams and groups for funding from SPARC’s Rural Travel Fund. The fund is administered by Gisborne District Council and was developed in response to concerns about the lack of participation in sport by young people living in rural communities. Young people aged between 5-19 years who participate in school or club sports teams outside of school hours, are the focus.

Applications are considered by a local allocations committee made up of Council staff and a Sport Gisborne Tairāwhiti representative who have an understanding of the challenges rural sports teams face.

“Usually we get about 10 - 20 applications each round. Unfortunately in the past several worthy teams have missed out on funding because of incorrectly completed applications,” says Council’s funding administrator Ngarimu Simpkins. “It is important for teams to note that the fund is only for travel to local competitions. Funding for travel to training or out of district competitions does not qualify. We don’t want teams to miss out”.

Applications for the summer travel fund close on Friday 3 December 2010. Applications for the winter travel fund open in March. Application forms are available from Council Customer services in Te Puia Springs and Fitzherbert Street or from Council’s website .

ENDS

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