The State Government has launched a new grant program targeting local governments and community organisations to grow participation in trail running and bushwalking activities in Western Australia.
Grants of between $5,000 and $25,000 will address one or more of the following objectives:
- increase entry-level opportunities to engage and encourage more people to take up hiking in WA;
- expand the skill development opportunities of participants to help them become more experienced and independent hikers;
- grow the number of people involved in leadership roles in hiking (including guides, coaches, instructors and assistants); and
- grow and support the number of volunteers involved in hiking activities.
The grant program is administered by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries.
The funding program has been developed in response to the recommendations of the WA Hiking Strategy released earlier this year.
As stated by Sport and Recreation Minister Mick Murray:
"There has never been more interest in and support for the trails industry - making now the ideal time to build on this momentum, particularly following the record number of people that took to WA's trails earlier this year during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Trail running and bushwalking are excellent activities for the health and wellbeing of Western Australians. They also attract visitors and stimulate regional economies - with hikers often staying in towns near trails and supporting local businesses.
"The State Government recognises the benefits of hiking to the State, and this new funding progress has the potential to increase participation, further develop the hiking industry, and support the development of more hiking leaders across Western Australia."
