Forty-four Canberra sporting and recreation clubs will share more than $4.2 million in funding in the latest round of the ACT Government’s Sport and Recreation Investment Scheme.

Organisations receiving funding this year include the Murrumbidgee Golf Club for irrigation redevelopment; Majura Tennis Club for shade structures and seats; the Belconnen United Sharks Rugby League Football Club for new LED lighting; and Netball ACT for solar battery installation.

The Sharks’ president, Darren Piercy, said new lighting means their more than 120 players will be able to use the entire playing surface for training; host 17’s Girls and Boys on Friday nights; and inaugurate the U19’s Women’s competition next season.

“With this level of investment in the facility, it opens the door for long term security and the opportunity to continue to overhaul and upgrade other areas through our partners, sponsors and supporters. We are truly grateful to the ACT Government for the funding and confidence in the site.”

The ACT Government injected $1 million injection into this round, fulfilling an election commitment.

The Scheme’s four funding streams aim to strengthen community sport and active recreation:

• The Community Sport Facilities Funding Program supports the development of new, high‑quality and sustainable facilities, or upgrades to existing facilities.
• The Club Enhancement Program assists sporting and recreation organisations to purchase equipment, upskill coaches and officials, and improve club governance.
• The State Organisation Support Program strengthens organisational capacity and capability through three‑year agreements.
• The Industry Partnership Program enables the ACT Government to co‑invest with State Sporting Organisations in projects.

“Sport and recreation play a vital role in bringing our community together,” sports and recreation minister Yvette Bery MLA said. “This funding supports local organisations to improve facilities, build capability, and create more opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to participate.

“By improving facilities and strengthening clubs, we’re ensuring more Canberrans stay active, connected and healthy.”

The Sport and Recreation Investment Scheme supports CBR Next Move strategy, the ACT Government’s sport and active recreation strategy to 2028.