Northern NSW Football has outlined the next steps for its clubs towards recovering from the devastating floods that swept across the Northern Rivers and Clarence Valley areas earlier this month.
NNSWF staff have been in constant contact with key football stakeholders on the ground in the Football Far North Coast and North Coast Football regions to gain a comprehensive understanding of the issues clubs face.
Twelve clubs have sustained moderate to heavy damage including damage to structures, playing surfaces, canteens, ground maintenance equipment, team apparel, training gear and club records.
Estimates for recovery range from $2000 to $150,000 per club.
NNSWF CEO David Eland said while the initial response was to ascertain as much information as possible, the next phase of the plan would be about tangible help and support.
“As the waters recede the flood recovery is shifting gears,” Eland said.
“Our team and I have been in daily contact with Football Far North Coast and North Coast Football to ensure members of the football family are supported when it matters.
“Through this consultation we are now able to move from assessing the damage to rallying support and providing tangible assistance.”
NNSWF will support members of its football family affected by floods through:
Lobbying
- NNSWF is working closely with Football Australia and Football NSW to lobby government at all levels for support.
- A coordinated approach provides focused lobbying to government decision makers that will maximise outcomes for clubs.
Grants
- There are several grants and funding packages available to impacted clubs.
- NNSWF team members have worked directly with government on behalf of clubs to access some packages and will engage a grant writing specialist to assist clubs with other opportunities.
- See full range of grant and funding opportunities.
Equipment
- NNSWF’s advanced order through First Touch Football Supplies of balls, portable goals, corner flags, bibs and markers will soon be allocated based on need and delivered to impacted clubs.
- NNSWF’s appreciation is extended to Mitre for their generous donation of 1,400 footballs.
- Thank you to suppliers who have provided equipment at cost or at a discounted rate: Umbro, Alpha, Summit and Eagle Sports.
- In total $40,000 has been committed to essential equipment to assist clubs get back on the pitch when they are ready.
Fundraising portal
- NNSWF is working with the Australian Sports Foundation to build a fundraising portal for donations direct to football clubs.
- This will go live week commencing 28 March. NNSWF will communicate details shortly.
Under consideration
NNSWF continues to consult on a range of issues and will soon communicate outcomes related to:
- A boot drive to assist players of all ages.
- Fee relief for impacted clubs.
- Support from the NNSWF Facilities Fund.
- Assisting FFNC to schedule a return to football.
Visit the Northern NSW Football Flood Recovery Hub HERE
