Wednesday, 5 October 2016
SilverSport - modelled on the Liberal National Government's successful KidSport program - provides up to $200 towards fees, uniforms and equipment needed for senior's sport and recreation activities. The innovative program is being piloted in the cities of Belmont, Kwinana and Kalgoorlie-Boulder, and the shires of Northam and Coolgardie. Ms Davies, who is in Kalgoorlie-Boulder today visiting local SilverSport participants at the Inspired Life fitness centre, said 718 seniors had already taken up the challenge to be more active. "In Kalgoorlie-Boulder and Coolgardie, 161 seniors have joined SilverSport and the most popular activities here have been joining the Kalgoorlie Bowling Club and using the Goldfields Recreation Club," she said. "I'm pleased the program has had a strong uptake in the first three months." To date, 193 seniors have been issued vouchers in the City of Belmont, 259 in the City of Kwinana and 105 in the Shire of Northam. The most popular activities are bowls, swimming, golf and fitness/gym memberships. "Active communities are happy and healthier communities and active seniors certainly set a great example for everyone else," Ms Davies said. Ms Davies said that through SilverSport, the State Government was helping more seniors who might otherwise find it unaffordable to join a sport or recreation club. "We hope the program encourages more people to improve their physical and mental health, increase their social circle and connect with their community," she said. The program has received $300,000 in funding from the departments of Sport and Recreation and Local Government and Communities. "Applicants with a Health Care Card or Pensioner Concession Card can join a registered SilverSport program," Local Government Minister Paul Miles said. "The fees of up to $200 per person will go directly to recognised SilverSport clubs, recreation centres, programs and businesses, through their local government." Fact File
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