Local sports have had a boost, thanks to the Local Sport Grant Program.

Within the Barwon Electorate, sports have shared in $4.4 million in NSW Government funding following the awarding of grants in the Local Sport Grant Program. 

This has benefited sporting clubs and associations in Broken Hill, Cobar, Mendooran, Narrabri and Warren to the tune of almost $50,000 in total.

Receiving funding in the Western Plains App region were the Cobar Junior Rugby League, who received $4470, to go towards sourcing referees from other towns. 

Warren Golf Club, received $4500, to go towards golfing equipment because of barriers stopping youth playing golf. 

Warren Golf Club member, Emma Robertson said the money was appreciated and would go toward building up interest in junior members who have coaching on Sundays.

“We are looking to get caps, golf clubs and other things to encourage the juniors,” Ms Robertson said. “The kids are up to 16 years old and are really keen on golf. Through the sessions they get a handicap and really improve their technique.”

Ms Robertson said some junior players have gone on to join the senior ranks of Warren Golf Club and get a “real” handicap.

“They play through school as well, and it’s great to see the enthusiasm.”

Not a golfer herself, Ms Robertson said her husband was a keen coach of the juniors and they thanked the grant writers for their successful submission.

“It is really all about boosting our juniors,” she said.

Councillor Darriea Turley, representing Stephen Lawrence, NSW Labor Government Duty MLC for Barwon, said it was fantastic to see such a variety of sporting groups in Barwon receiving funding under this program.

“Sport is a way of life across the many towns and villages of the Barwon electorate. This funding will help our local clubs and their army of volunteers to provide more opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the benefits of sport and active recreation.”