Councillors adopted the Gannawarra Shire Sport and Recreation Strategy 2019-2029 and Implementation Plan at the May ordinary council meeting.
Placed on display for public comment in March 2019, the document has been developed to consolidate the strategic direction of council’s investment and planning into sport and recreation facilities to better facilitate long-term planning and development opportunities across the shire.
“The Gannawarra Shire Sport and Recreation Strategy 2019-2029 recognises nature-based and passive recreational opportunities like walking, using a playground or visiting a park are just as important to our communities as structured sports like football and netball,” deputy mayor Charlie Gillingham said.
“The final version of the document also recognises that all members of our community should have access to the social and health benefits of participating in sport and recreation. And improving opportunities for participation is a priority.”
The strategy incorporates a 10-year implementation plan which has two core sections to it, noting none of the projects listed are in any order of priority.
“The first section details projects that have been identified as priorities council holds a lead role in and are primarily dependent on external funding,” Cr Gillingham said.
“The second section details projects that have been identified as priorities by communities across the Gannawarra Shire where partnership opportunities present between community sporting clubs and organisations, council and funding bodies.”
As well as the document being placed on public comment — which resulted in council receiving 19 submissions — an extensive consultation process occurred.
“Council officers met with 14 local sporting clubs and organisations to discuss the document and their club’s priority projects,” Cr Gillingham said.
‘‘In addition, 76 clubs and organisations were contacted via email with the draft document for their opportunity to provide feedback.
“Officers also made contact with clubs and representatives who participated in the original phase one consultation sessions to offer a follow up opportunity to discuss the draft strategy and their club’s input.’’
19°C