Sport Minister Phil Reeves today encouraged Far North Queensland sport and recreation groups to attend a workshop to find out what funding was available for their organisation.

"I recently announced four new programs to fund sport and recreation organisations, councils and schools to help them increase participation, recruit volunteers, and encourage disadvantaged communities to participate in sport," Mr Reeves said.

"Community groups will also be eligible for some funding programs.

"We're committed to providing opportunities for as many people as possible to get active to help make Queenslanders Australia's healthiest people."

The new programs, providing funding over a three year period, include:
$38 million Local Sport and Recreation Jobs plan, to help employ local sport and recreation coordinators,
$51.5 million Sport and Recreation Infrastructure program,
$27.6 million State Sport and Recreation Organisation Development Program, and
$18 million Active Inclusion Program.

State Member for Barron River Steve Wettenhall MP said the investment would deliver real benefits for the people of Far North Queensland.

"The Bligh Government provides more funding to sport and recreation than any other state and the new programs will boost the opportunities for Queenslanders from all walks of life to be involved in sport and recreation activities," he said.

"The new programs mean the amount of funding sporting clubs will have access to for minor capital works has more than doubled and more organisations can apply for funding than ever before.

"The funding will also help deliver jobs through the employment of local sport and recreation coordinators and infrastructure development.

"There will also be $3 million allocated to industry development.

"This is a great initiative that will boost participation numbers and recruit more volunteers.

"This is more proof of the Bligh Government commitment to sport and recreation in Far North Queensland.

"Over the last 10 years the Cairns region has benefitted from millions of dollars in funding.

"It's helped the Cairns Netball Association participate in education and training opportunities, and the Cairns PCYC extend their existing facility."

Mr Reeves said the Federal Government's 2009 Crawford report made the observation that children from middle-class backgrounds dominate club sport.

"We are determined to address access to sport and recreation so that no child misses out," he said.

"Under the Active Inclusion Program we will be making funding available for local organisations to encourage disadvantaged groups to participate in sport and recreation."

The funding programs are due to be released between March and April 2010.

The Cairns workshop will occur this Tuesday 2 March, 6:30 - 8pm, Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, Arterial Rd.

For more information about the workshops, and changes to sport and recreation funding, call 1300 656 191 or visit www.sportrec.qld.gov.au.

Media Contact: 3224 7081 or 3235 9236