Media Statements - State Government funds help build Beechboro aquatic centre

5/11/00

Altone Park was a first-class example of the State and local governments working together to build a stronger community, Sport and Recreation Minister Norman Moore said today.

Mr Moore was speaking at the official opening of the aquatic complex in Beechboro.

He said he was particularly pleased that the State Government had been able to help fund the complex with a $488,000 grant through the Ministry of Sport and Recreation’s Community Sporting and Recreation Facilities Fund.

The council had put $1.39 million towards the cost of the project.

“In the last five years, the Government has made $60 million available through this fund for capital works for sporting and recreation facilities throughout the State,” the Minister said.

“This has resulted in 1,210 community projects State-wide with a total value of $244 million - a wonderful achievement.”

Mr Moore said Altone Park offered something for everyone.

“In terms of encouraging participation in sport and recreation, facilities such as these are highly desirable,” he said.

“It’s very important that, with all the pressures on young families these days, they have the chance to join together in community sport and recreation activities.

“Facilities such as these provide just the sort of encouragement needed to encourage community participation and helping achieve a more healthy community in your district.”

Mr Moore said facilities like Altone Park not only offered the community better health opportunities, but they also created ongoing economic benefits, including employment opportunities.

He said the State Government was delighted with the ongoing success of the Community Sporting and Recreation Facilities Fund.

“It is designed to ensure that Western Australia maintains the high quality of its sporting and recreation facilities, making them more accessible and affordable to the community," the Minister said.

He said the criteria used to assess the applications included economic viability, community need and consultation.

“The CSRFF system is a tremendous way for the State Government to help communities develop,” Mr Moore said.

"The fund is an important part of the Coalition's sport and recreation policy, which aims to increase the overall level of funding and usage of such facilities."

Mr Moore said the CSRFF could provide up to one third of the capital cost of a project provided all conditions are met.

Community and sporting groups and local government provided similar amounts.

Mr Moore also officially opened a nine-hole golf course adjacent to the aquatic complex.

Media contact: Hartley Joynt, Minister’s office 9321 1444