A Kingborough Council Community Grant has helped Van Diemen Archers replace worn targets and upgrade essential safety equipment.
Kingborough Mayor, Paula Wriedt, said Council’s Grants Program supported local community groups who played a vital role in enhancing the community’s wellbeing through inclusive activities.
“Van Diemen Archers, situated in the Lea, is a long-standing local club that offers people of all ages a welcoming space to learn, connect, and enjoy the sport of archery in a safe and supportive environment,” Cr Wriedt said.
“The local sporting club has welcomed more than 1,200 school students through its school programs and 800 beginners to its Saturday morning ‘Come and Try’ sessions.”
President of Van Diemen Archers, Jay Leach, said the volunteer-run local club relied entirely on funds it raised to maintain the target range and upgrade archery equipment.
“Receiving this grant from Kingborough Council has been a tremendous boost for the club,” Mr Leach said.
“It has allowed us to continue supporting the local community and to introduce archery to schools and include programs for children with disabilities as a fun and inclusive outdoor activity.
“Thanks to the funding, we were able to purchase a line marking machine for our 100m range, as well as large target butts for all three of our ranges.
“Van Diemen Archers offers a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
“The club currently has more than 90 members, ranging in age from 6 to 86 years old, using a variety of bows including traditional longbows, recurves, and compounds.”
Van Diemen Archers is open to the public for ‘Come & Try’ sessions every Saturday from 10am to 12pm. Club members can access the range on Thursday afternoons, and all-day Saturday and Sunday.
Mayor Paula Wriedt said it’s an absolute pleasure to be able to support our dedicated community groups.
“Our Grants Program is an important source for funding for many of our community groups with grants of up to $3,000 available in the annual Community Grant round, and up to $1000 throughout the year in Quick Response grants,” Cr Wriedt said.
The 2025 Community Grants will open again mid-July and run until late August.
Visit the Community Grants page for more information.