The Grafton Dragon Boat Club will welcome more people to the sport after receiving $5,700 through the NSW Government’s Local Sport Grant Program.
State Nationals MP for Clarence Richie Williamson recently met with club members to celebrate the successful grant, which funded the purchase of 20 adjustable dragon boat paddles.
Williamson said the funding would help remove barriers to participation while supporting the club’s continued growth.
“The Local Sport Grant Program is all about helping grassroots sporting clubs provide better opportunities for their members and encouraging more people to get active,” Williamson said.
“It’s fantastic to see Grafton Dragon Boat Club secure this funding, which will make it easier for people of all ages and abilities to get involved in the sport.
“By investing in equipment that can be adjusted to suit different paddlers, the club is ensuring more people can enjoy dragon boating without the cost of purchasing specialised equipment.”
Club president Desley McClymont said the new paddles would make a significant difference for existing members and newcomers alike.
“Grafton Dragon Boat Club was grateful for the $5,700 we received for the adjustable paddles,” McClymont said.
“Purchasing these paddles means there’s no barrier to anyone wishing to learn to paddle and, over time, the financial outlay for the club will be less as each paddle can be adjusted to suit any participant.
“Our ‘Learn to Paddle’ program has been very popular and these paddles mean they can be adjusted to the individual needs of each paddler. This is really important as we now have a number of junior paddlers and the lighter weight of the paddles, as well as the fact they can be shortened, really helps them as they’re learning.”
Williamson congratulated the club on its successful application and acknowledged the dedication of its volunteers.
“Community sporting clubs rely heavily on passionate volunteers who work tirelessly to provide opportunities for local people,” he said.
“I congratulate Grafton Dragon Boat Club on securing this funding and look forward to seeing more people enjoying the sport as a result of this investment.”
Like what you’re reading? Support North Coast Times by making a small contribution today and help us keep delivering local news paywall-free. Donate now