Member for Bathurst Paul Toole said investing in sport was important.

“Sport is such a great pastime – it’s good for our physical and mental health as well as a great way to connect with like-minded people in our community,” he said.

“The Bathurst Pan Dragons are a fantastic bunch of people and I’m thrilled that this funding will enable them to purchase a custom-built trailer for transporting their dragon boats.”

Mr Toole said the project was one of 831 that have received funding as part of the NSW Government’s Local Sport Grant Program.

He said the Bathurst electorate will share in $50,000 in funding for sports clubs and community initiatives.

“The program provides grants of up to $20,000 towards projects to assist regions with rallying the community together and ensuring ongoing involvement in sport,” Mr Toole said.

“The NSW Government is committed to supporting grassroots sport and improving participation rates across the state.

“We know that sport has many proven health, social and economic outcomes and I encourage eligible clubs to apply for the next round of funding. Projects that are eligible include upgrades to local amenities or improving access to facilities, training programs and community events.”

Program applications open in late 2018.