Murraylands Gymnastics Academy awarded $320k
The regional gymnastic club have received great news whilst on the move back to their original facility.
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A regional gymnastics academy has been awarded funding for new equipment after a rain storm forced them to find a new home.
The Murraylands Gymnastics Academy (MGA) has been awarded $320,267 to help it purchase more than 50 new pieces of equipment.
The equipment funding came after the club applied to the Australian Government’s 'Play Our Way' program back in April.
Head coach Jemma Tilley said that everyone was excited for the nicer gear.
The equipment grant is the second part of their grant application; the first part was a new building application.
The academy has applied for a $1.5 million grant to build at Murray Bridge Showground, but won't hear about the outcome for another few months, Ms Tilley said.
"So the equipment that we applied for is intending to go into the new build, but definitely can be used here in the current facility," she said.
If the application is successful, MGA hopes to build a customised shed over the next 3-5 years.
This would allow for growth, decreased rental costs, competition and event hosting and more development opportunities for more demographics across the region.
Getting active and just having fun with the new equipment was what Ms Tilley was most excited about.
From new bars, a trampoline, to permanent kindergym equipment and ninja equipment, the kids are sure to be happy.
"Thanks to everyone for continuing to support us," Ms Tilley said.
Now the team at MGA are making the big move back into their original building at 10 Thomas Street, Murray Bridge.
The academy were forced to move due to storm damage that seeped into the building's floors last December.
President Narrelle Roe-Simons said that the original building was now clean and mould-free.
“This is the good news our club has desperately needed this year,” she said.
"We lost almost half of our participants and volunteers during this time, but we are starting to turn things around now.
“This equipment funding is one-step in long-term strategy to reinvigorate gymnastics here in the Murraylands, which aims to make the sport more accessible for all.
“What we sincerely hope and believe, is that this new equipment will help us bring some of those families, and athletes back to the club after last year’s sudden closure.
"We're looking forward to seeing some new people (and) to opening back up in term four."
Just some of the equipment the club will purchase includes:
- Full 14 x 14 metre competition size sprung floor
- 8 x mini trampolines, including a tumble track
- 4 x 2m Goliath competition trampoline
- Two panel wall hinged bars
- Strap happy gym beginner bars
- High performance balance beam
- 5 x supersoft landing mat
- Ninja warrior course blocks and pillars
This new equipment is set to transform MGA's training space and create opportunities for new future programs.
Once the funding becomes available in the coming months, MGA will begin to purchase equipment and establish the programs.
More than 660 applications for funding were received across Australia, and 120 were successful.
