Empowering Dawson’s Next Generation of Sporting Talent

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP, is proud to announce that 44 outstanding young athletes from across the Dawson electorate have been successful recipients of the Australian Government’s Local Sporting Champions program.

The successful applicants come from communities right across the electorate, including Wulguru, Balnagowan, Mount Pleasant, Riordanvale, Idalia, Glenella, Slade Point, Rural View, South Mackay, Seaforth, Ayr, Breadalbane, Cannonvale, Annandale, Shoal Point, Andergrove, North Mackay, Erakala, Hampden, Bowen, Sugarloaf, Midge Point, and surrounding areas.

“These 44 young athletes are a credit to themselves, their families, their coaches, and the local clubs that support them,” Mr Willcox said.

“Dawson has a strong and proud sporting culture, and it is terrific to see so many young people earning the opportunity to represent our region at state, national, and international level.”

The Local Sporting Champions grants assist recipients with the significant costs associated with elite competition, including travel, accommodation, uniforms, and essential sporting equipment. Each successful applicant may receive up to $750 to support their participation.

Athletes from the Dawson electorate will go on to represent their communities across a broad range of sports, including rugby union, rugby league, basketball, touch football, softball, netball, hockey, football, athletics, cross country, swimming, rowing, volleyball, gymnastics, BMX, motocross, pony club, skate hockey, and Australian football. Competitions range from Queensland state championships through to national championships and international events.

“Regional athletes often face additional financial pressures simply due to distance and travel requirements,” Mr Willcox said.

“The Local Sporting Champions program helps ensure that young people from regional communities like Dawson are not disadvantaged and can compete on an equal footing with their metropolitan counterparts.”

Applications Now Open

Mr Willcox is encouraging families across the Dawson electorate to apply for the next round of Local Sporting Champions funding.

The program provides financial assistance to athletes, coaches, and officials aged 12 to 18 who are participating in state, national, or international championships. Grants of up to $750 are available to help cover competition-related expenses.

The current round is now open and will close at 11:59pm on Wednesday, January 31, 2026.

Further information on eligibility requirements and how to apply is available through the Australian Sports Commission at:
https://www.sportaus.gov.au/grants_and_funding/local_sporting_champions

“Every young athlete deserves the chance to pursue their sporting ambitions,” Mr Willcox said.

“I strongly encourage eligible families across Dawson to apply and take advantage of this valuable support.”

ENDS

Contact: Amanda Wright | Media & Communications Adviser
P | 07 4944 0662   M | 0455 456 705   E | Amanda.Wright@aph.gov.au