Cobram Barooga Canoe Club has received a number of grants from the Moira Shire Council to upgrade its club equipment.
The club received $4432 under the 2020-21 Moira Shire Community Strengthening Grant to assist with the purchase of a double outrigger canoe (OC2).
The OC2 will enable more community members to enjoy paddling as it is a lightweight, more stable and accessible boat.
The club received an additional $2500 under the 2020-21 Moira Shire COVID Recovery Grant to assist with the purchase of additional boats to help more people get out on the water and reduce the sharing of equipment.
The new equipment has enabled more people to enjoy the sport of paddling, with members trying different paddling disciplines and exploring new waterways.
“We are thankful for their support and very excited about the paddling opportunities we can offer the community,” membership officer Louise Greenwood said.
With the help of Yarrawonga-Mulwala Amateur Canoe Club president Tim Roadley, the club has been able to run two free community introductory paddling sessions, with plans to run more in the coming months.
The club also received $435 under the 2020-21 Moira Shire Quick Response Grant to purchase first aid and safety equipment to help keep its paddlers safe.
Mayor Libro Mustica said it was a privilege to support local clubs.
“Community Strengthening Grants help facilitate projects that enrich the whole community,” Cr Mustica said.
“It’s very exciting for the Cobram Canoe Club and I encourage all clubs to get involved and apply for any grants that are available.
“Coming out of COVID-19, I hope people get behind these clubs and the shire will continue to support our local clubs.”
There are two grant rounds each year, with grants up to $10,000.
The shire has just finished taking applications for this round, with successful recipients to be announced at the next council meeting.
Those interested in joining the Cobram Canoe Club can contact the club via the Cobram Barooga Canoe Club Facebook page.