Lake Macquarie City Council will throw cash-strapped sporting clubs across the local government area a lifeline by waiving fees for the 2020 winter sports season by 50 per cent.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The initiative comes off the back of clubs experiencing difficulty due to COVID-19 Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said.
She added that with reduced and cancelled seasons, and community members who weren't in a position to pay annual membership fees, the council's aim was to provide some much-needed relief to clubs.
"Community sport is an essential part of Lake Macquarie and needs to be supported," Cr Fraser said.
"Many of our sporting organisations have experienced challenges with having their season delayed and a loss of revenue from sign-ups.
"We want to rally behind these clubs, who provide so many benefits to our community, and do everything we can to help winter sports go ahead."
The council predicts that the proposed fee waiver of 50 per cent will collectively save sports clubs an estimated $216,000.
Andrew Bryant, the council's manager for community partnerships, said more than 60 winter sports clubs will benefit directly including football codes, netball and baseball.
"Only 10 per cent of winter code clubs have made the decision not to participate in the 2020 season," he said.
"This is a meaningful way that council can help support a valuable community service. I'm excited to see people of all ages back out on the field enjoying their sport."
The council has developed facility manager guidelines to help clubs manage their sporting facilities.
Clubs are encouraged to visit the Lake Mac Facility Manager 'Return to Training' checklist for further details about returning to training.