Premier Roger Cook visits Springfield Primary School to announce $10 million fund for community sports

Politicians and ball sports do not always mix well. Think John Howard’s bowling attempt or Scott Morrison’s rugby tackle that felled a child in 2022. But in Kallaroo on Tuesday, Premier Roger Cook managed to avoid an own goal when he took to the soccer pitch at Springfield Primary School to announce a new $10 million fund for community sport. Public schools will be able to apply for grants to upgrade equipment and facilities, in return for making the school grounds available to community sports groups outside of classroom hours. “It’s a win-win situation and we’re really excited that the Cook Labor Government can make this announcement today,” Education Minister Tony Buti said. “Today is the last day that students will be here and then this site remains vacant until classes return in early February so why not allow these facilities to be used during that period... “It’s a good use of taxpayer money . . . it provides a greater connection between the school and the community and there’s a safety element. When you have more people at school after hours there is less chance of vandalism.” Applications will open in early 2025 and Mr Cook said the program may be further extended. “We’ve been trying to crack this nut for years now and I was determined on becoming Premier that we would make this happen,” he said. “It will include goal posts, nets, boots, backboards and netting and other minor equipment, installation of gate locks and monitoring equipment to support safe access outside school hours. “We’re looking to see how this first round of funding goes to see how we can continue to expand it, but it’s about utilising the great public assets in our local schools for local sports groups and a way we can maximise the benefit.”