Junior sport travel grants open for summer: Fraser

October 12, 2006

Junior sport travel grants open for summer: Fraser

Thousands of junior athletes who compete in State-level championships away from home this summer will be able to apply for a $200 rebate to offset their travelling expenses.

Sport Minister Andrew Fraser today opened round two of the Young Athlete Assistance Program (YAAP), which will provide a further $2 million in grants this financial year.

Mr Fraser said YAAP had recently been reviewed and fine-tuned in consultation with key stakeholders to ensure even more Queensland juniors could pursue their sporting goals.

“This program recognises that travelling away from home to compete in events can be quite costly for young athletes and their families,” he said.

“Under the first round of the program for the winter sports season, we approved more than 3,100 grants worth $2 million to help meet travel and accommodation expenses.

“There are many talented young athletes and it’s impossible to help everyone, but under the new guidelines, we will be able to fund up to 10,000 grants in this round.”

Mr Fraser said the rebate was open to junior athletes under 18 years of age who competed in State-level events, including school championships, 300 kilometres or more from home.

“We have also reduced the amount of paperwork for young athletes because, unlike round one, they will not have to apply before the event and then confirm they competed,” he said.

“They will simply lodge an application after the event and provide their supporting documentation at the same time.”

Mr Fraser said eligibility criteria and other details could be obtained by visiting the departmental website at www.sportrec.qld.gov.au.

“This program was a direct outcome of the Queensland Obesity Summit in May, to help kids get active and develop to their full potential,” he said.

“The response has been overwhelmingly positive.

“Getting kids involved in sport and other physical activities gives them a great start to life.

“It improves their fitness and skill development, helps them maintain a healthy weight, boosts academic performance and enhances self-esteem.”

Media Contact: Chris Taylor: 3227 8825 or 0419 710 874