In Townsville it is all about the volunteers

The Table Tennis Australia Equipment and Facilities Grant Program has helped many clubs and associations around the country. Now in its fourth year, the program has directly injected nearly $230,000 in equipment and facilities across all States/Territories. Townsville Table Tennis Association (TTTA) was a recipient last year and used the proceeds to upgrade their kitchen facilities. 

When we talk about equipment and facilities we often refer to new sports equipment or new gyms, but clubs need more than that for their members. TTTA Treasurer Zac Murphy said that the club has gone from a 1980s laminate kitchen to a modern kitchen that is so much easier to clean and it provides a better experience to the club members. 

“The number one thing is that we now have an updated kitchen with stainless steel benchtops and a new fridge which we were able to purchase with money from another grant we applied for,” Murphy said. 

Funding through grants is crucial to improve club facilities, but most of the work is done by volunteers. The members and volunteers pulled together to help strip away the old kitchen and get the venue organised for the new one. 

“The biggest takeaway has been the unity, membership and community that pulled together for a fantastic outcome and product,” Murphy said.

Over the last week TTTA hosted the Queensland Junior and Senior Championships and the visitors have ensured the new kitchen has had a workout. 

“It is 100% run by volunteers and people that visit for events have told them it is the best canteen in Queensland,” Murphy said.

 “It is really nice for the volunteers to hear that from people.”  

TTA launched the 2021 Equipment and Facilities Grant Program last week and entries close on 10 May. Murphy said the process was easy. 

“If you have any doubts contact TTA directly, they are really helpful. But the main thing is to think about the reward for your volunteers as well as your members,” Murphy said.  

To find out more about the Equipment and Facilities Grant Program, click here.