A milestone in youth health and wellbeing was recently achieved with vouchers issued by Margaret River Recreation Centre under the Western Australian State Government’s Kidsport program tipping $100,000 in value.
Offered to eligible youth living in the Shire of Augusta Margaret River since 2012, vouchers provide for a contribution of up to $200 per person, per calendar year, for use towards sports club or association fees.
Shire of Augusta Margaret River Recreation Services Manager Dylan Brown said the program was growing in popularity with demand almost doubling since its inaugural year.
“We had fantastic uptake on the initiative in 2012 with 114 vouchers for sports participation.
“Improved awareness of the program in 2013 saw that figure rise to 213.
“We topped that again in 2014 with 222 vouchers issued and are on track to beat that again this year with 155 vouchers issued in the six months until June 2015.
“They are impressive numbers and we are very pleased parents, teachers and coaches are using the opportunity to encourage youth into active and healthy lifestyles.”
Mr Brown said to qualify for the vouchers youth needed to be aged between five and 18 years, have a health care or pension card, and live within the Shire of Augusta Margaret River.
“Basketball, netball and football are the definite favourites for recipients of the vouchers but there’s quite a range of other sports to choose from as well.
“If parents or youth aren’t sure what’s out there come in and see us at the Rec Centre and we are happy to provide you with
some options.”
