Geraldton MLA Ian Blayney is inviting local sport and recreation clubs to revitalise existing gear or purchase new sporting equipment with the opening of the latest round of the Community Sporting Club Equipment Subsidy Scheme.

The subsidy, which started in December 2013, encourages regional and metropolitan sporting clubs across Western Australia to apply for a $500 grant to spend on equipment accessible to all club members. Previously a one-off payment, applicants are now able to re-apply.

To date, 890 regional clubs had received$445,000, and 719 metropolitan clubs had received $359,000, for new equipment.

The $500 subsidies can be spent on equipment such as balls, bats, racquets, bibs, protective gear, team uniforms, First Aid kits, shade tents and safety gear.

The subsidy will help clubs provide the equipment they required to keep pace with the growing population in regional WA.

Sporting equipment is expensive and this investment provides support for regional residents to remain active.

Administered by the Department of Sport and Recreation, the four-year scheme will deliver $1 million to metropolitan clubs and $1 million to regional clubs.

For more information and to apply, visit http://www.dsr.wa.gov.au/club-equipment

The subsidy is part of the Supporting Community Sport Initiative which also comprises the Athlete Travel Subsidy Scheme: http://www.dsr.wa.gov.au/funding/individuals/athlete-travel-subsidy-scheme

For more information on Royalties for Regions projects, visit Bigger Picture-Regions