Ararat Rural City Council in partnership with Ararat Pony Club have secured close to $1.5 million in funding from the Australian Government’s Play Our Way Grants Program.
The program provides greater opportunities for women and girls to access, participate and remain involved in sport and physical activity.
The funding will support the construction of a covered equine arena, complete with lighting, to provide a climate-controlled riding space that is protected from rain and sunlight.
The new arena will meet the needs of local women and girls, support increased sport and physical activity opportunities all year round in all weather, and help them reach their full potential.
The new facilities will also benefit a broad range of other users, including the Mount Cole Equestrian Association, Midland Zone of Pony Club Victoria, nearby pony clubs and other horse-related activities, as well as other sports, community and educational initiatives.
The New Covered Sports Arena for the Ararat Pony Club is supported by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care.
“We greatly appreciate the opportunity to receive the Play Our Way Grant. Ararat Pony Club would like to thank Ararat Rural City Council for being so supportive of our application.
It’s amazing to be able to have an all-weather undercover area. This will enable the club to plan more activities which aren’t weather dependent. An undercover arena has been on our wish list for many years so it’s great to see it coming to fruition.” said Ararat Pony Club President, Helen Spencer.
“Local sports are an integral part of rural communities. This new facility will help to provide more opportunities for women and girls to get involved with our local sporting groups” said Mayor of Ararat Rural City Council, Cr Jo Armstrong.