Cootamundra’s local sporting clubs have thrown their support behind the Good Sports program ahead of the winter season.
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The Good Sports program is part of the Australian Government’s National Ice Action Strategy to reduce the impact of illegal drugs on Australian communities.
Studies have shown that Australians are proportionally using more methamphetamine than almost any other country. Conservative estimates suggest there are more than 200,000 ice users in Australia.
Aimed at developing local sporting teams into education and support centres, the Good Sports program is being expanded with an additional $4.6 million in funding to include a new education module on tackling illegal drugs.
Cootamundra Blues president Todd Brasham stated the program was positive and that participation and involvement with sports, regardless of code, contributed towards a healthier lifestyle.
“Any sporting club is good for promoting healthy living and staying in shape,” Mr Brasham said.
“Regional clubs like ours are always built around good positive people who support each other and lend a hand.
“Drugs are an issue in our community and it’s good to see some support coming from this cause.”
Tricolours rugby union president Justin Roberts agreed, stating that sports participation was a key driver in community development.
“Sports are a wonderful community-building thing to be involved in,” Mr Roberts said.
“You meet people from different backgrounds that you would never normally interact with and it’s a great way to bring the community together”
In a statement released earlier this week, Federal Member for Riverina Michael McCormack earmarked the Good Sports initiative as a unique opportunity to promote positive behaviour in the community.
“Clubs are a snapshot of the larger community and this is a great opportunity for them to promote positive behaviour when it comes to tackling illegal drugs,” Mr McCormack said.
“We are committed to tackling drugs at the grass roots and beyond so our kids, families and community have the knowledge and resources to live long and happy lives free of illicit drugs.”
The Alcohol and Drug Foundation with the support of the Riverina Football Netball League and Farrer Football Netball League will hold a community forum on April 5 at the Narrandera Ex-Servicemen’s Club to launch the expanded program.
Click here to learn more about the Good Sports Program.