DENMAN Little Athletics Centre is boasting some new sports gear, thanks to funds raised through the sale of Coles' Community Chiller Bags.
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The organisation was one of 316 clubs across Australia to share in more than $1.1 million in equipment grants, with Denman pocketing a handy $1400.
Denman Little Athletics' president Claire Thrift said the money would make a big difference to the centre.
According to her, it needed the new equipment to continually provide a high-quality and safe weekly experience for its youngsters.
"Our discuses and shot puts are more than 20 years old and in dire need of replacement," she said.
"They've either lost their shapes or we are unable to read the weight measurements on them.
"We rely on the generous donations from the community and grants from organisations like Coles to be able to replace and maintain our equipment."
Coles state general manager Ivan Slunjski said Coles was delighted to provide funding to help the Little Athletics centres in locations such as Denman.
"Thanks to our customers who have bought our range of chiller bags at Coles stores, we have provided nearly $20,000 in sports equipment grants to Little Athletics centres in the Hunter region in areas such as
Denman, Muswellbrook and Aberdeen," she ecxplained.
"Overall, Coles has donated about $400,000 across NSW in the past 12 months to help kids lead healthier, happier lives.
"The Denman Little Athletics Centre told us they would like to receive a grant to buy shot puts, discuses and javelins.
"And, we were delighted to assist because we know these are an essential part of Little Athletics to support young budding athletes."
Funds for the grants are raised through the sale of specially-marked chiller bags designed by nine-year-old Lachie Macdonald from Victoria and Charlie De Bruyn, 12, from Western Australia.
For every bag sold, 25 cents is directed to the Coles Little Athletics Community Fund to provide sport equipment grants.
In addition to the chiller bags, Coles sells Community Bags, which help to raise funds for SecondBite, Guide
Dogs Australia and Clean Up Australia.
All Community Bags were designed by school children as part of a competition.
