Menulog finance director Michelle Japp said the Wagga Kangaroos Junior Rugby League Club will be among the first to receive a grant from the new Community Support Act. Photo: Supplied.
Wagga Wagga Junior Rugby League Club is set to receive a $10,000 boost from a new program, which will be used to encourage greater female participation in sport.
The club will be among the first recipients of the Community Support Act grant, which will be used to fund the construction of new female change room facilities and help meet growing demand from women in traditionally male-dominated sports, such as rugby league.
Three local clubs in Wagga will also receive smaller grants, including Wagga Tigers Football Club, Tolland Football Club, and St Michael’s Cricket Club.
Wagga Junior Rugby League President Daniel Cronin hopes the upgrade will help open the door to greater female participation, expand community engagement, and ensure the Wagga Junior Rugby League remains a central hub for junior sport in the region.
“As more girls and women join the club, we’ve known that fit-for-purpose facilities are essential to support them,” Mr Cronin said.
“This grant from Menulog gives us the momentum to make it happen and ensure we provide comfortable facilities for both girls and boys.”
Menulog finance director Michelle Japp said the Community Support Act was food-delivery service Menulog’s latest initiative designed to give back to local communities in Australia.
Ms Japp hopes the new facilities will foster a welcoming environment for all players.
“We understand the importance local sport clubs have in their communities. They’re not only a place for connection, but often the heart and spirit of their communities,” she said.
“A project like this might seem simple, but the impact of these initiatives on communities is significant.
“Proper facilities enable greater inclusion, participation and pride, especially for girls and women in regional communities.
“This is exactly why we created the Community Support Act, to back initiatives that help communities thrive.
“For nearly 20 years, Menulog has partnered with local restaurants and small businesses, strengthening the local economy and opportunities.
“Now, we’re turning that same support toward the people behind the scenes keeping communities connected.”
Menulog’s Community Support Act is investing in community groups, charities and clubs across regional NSW and Victoria.
Grants ranging between $2500 and $50,000 are available to help community groups access funding they need to deliver initiatives and create positive change in their communities, as well as supporting changemakers who keep Australian neighbourhoods and towns ticking.
The Community Support Act is receiving applications from community groups, sporting clubs and local leaders, and is encouraging members of the community to apply through this website.
