For local Federal Member Libby Coker MP it was a trip down memory lane when
she visited the Surf Coast Little Athletics Clubs meet in Torquay on Saturday
morning (29 Jan).

A former Little Athletics participant herself, Libby loved chatting with the kids and
parents, before presenting the fledgling Surf Coast club with $1000 of seed funding.

The fledgling club has only held six Saturday morning athletic meets so far, yet
there is already 100 paid up members. That speaks volumes about the need in the
community, Libby said.

I took part in Little Aths as a child and it was great fun - good to keep active and
connect with other kids. It was also a way for parents to meet and develop lifelong
friendships.

For a rapidly growing area like Torquay, it gives young families who move into the
area a place to connect.

I was thrilled to announce seed funding for the Club to help pay for much needed
equipment. Its important to encourage positive initiatives like this. Seeing the
enthusiasm of the kids and parents was wonderful.

The club is already growing rapidly so it may soon need a new home. I know that
it aims to have its own facilities ultimately, Libby said.

The club is currently based at Torquay P-6 Primary College on Grossmans Road.
Libby praised the founding President Claire Osborn who has been a driver behind
the establishment of the club.

"Claire has worked hard to build the club up from nothing, with the help of a team
of parent volunteers, Libby said.

Claire Osborn said Little Athletics was fabulous for children to develop foundation
skills and to network.

The last couple of years with Covid many community activities have been
cancelled. This is a good healthy way for kids to get back involved again, Claire said.

It has been wonderful to see the community backing the club. We now have an
amazing foundation committee with lots of enthusiasm.

People interested in finding out more about the Surf Coast Little Athletics Club can
go to: surfcoastlittleathletics.com