Women and girls in Beechworth will find it easier and more enjoyable to play sport and be active as a result of a $354,100 grant to The Beechworth Chain Gang.

The Beechworth Chain Gang was selected to receive the funding under the Australian Government’s $200 million Play Our Way Program. This program is designed to remove barriers, address discrimination and promote equality for women and girls to participate in sport and physical activity.

It will use the money to build a purpose-built combined shelter, toilet, and storage area, designed to improve safety, comfort, and accessibility for all Beechworth Mountain Bike Park users. This upgrade is a key step in fostering a vibrant and diverse mountain biking community, ensuring everyone can fully enjoy the park.

The Beechworth Chain Gang is one of the 166 groups around the nation selected to receive Play Our Way funding for new or modified facilities for women and girls across a range of sports.

Funding will complement the $55.6 million offered to 124 organisations under Stream 2: Participation and Equipment, and will be offered nationwide, with a focus on facilities for women and girls who face additional barriers to participation. This includes women and girls who have a disability, are First Nations people or from culturally and linguistically diverse communities.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Sport, Anika Wells:

“Play Our Way is all about creating greater opportunities for women and girls to have an equal chance to get the fun, satisfaction and health benefits sport offers.

“The huge response to the grants, and the range of great project ideas, show that Australian communities want to be more supportive of women and girls.”

Quotes attributable to Senator Darmanin:

“Congratulations to the Beechworth Chain Gang on this fantastic achievement who are gearing up the park for the whole community.

"This new facility is a game-changer for the park. By providing essential amenities, it will make the space more inviting and practical for women and girls, encouraging more people to get involved and enjoy the sport."

"Projects like this are about more than just facilities—they’re about creating opportunities. By making the park more accessible, we’re paving the way for greater female participation and helping to build a stronger, more inclusive community around mountain biking."

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MEDIA CONTACTS: 

Minister Wells                             Chris Garry                      0472 840 665

Senator Darmanin                    Rose Steele                     0405 000 680