A new sports services hub for Wānaka sports clubs aims to relieve the stress on clubs facing increased administrative challenges due to a lack of resources.

The Upper Clutha Sports Services Hub will provide administrative, financial, governance and advocacy support to local clubs, Sport Central community sport advisor Tiny Carruthers said. 

“The hub is a valuable step to strengthening club systems across the district,” he said.

“This model will tap into the huge wealth of volunteer and professional expertise and channel that in a way that will practically support our club system.”

Sport Central began discussions about club resourcing in the middle of 2023, engaging the Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) and local clubs. Research identified a strong need for increased club support and identified the areas of greatest focus.

After a review of various delivery models by a working group, the hub has been established and registered as an incorporated society, giving it the ability to generate sustainable funding and contract staff to provide the support services directly to clubs. 

Initial seed funding has been provided by Queenstown Lakes District Council.

“The hub will be led by a management committee made up of local volunteers, bringing a range of skills and significant experience in governance, finance, legal, funding and administration,” Tiny said.

“A club liaison group, facilitated by a Sport Central representative, will engage clubs through quarterly hub events with the first session to be held on Wednesday August 21.”

Upper Clutha Sports Services Hub chair Glenn Peat said the hub will be an important vehicle for forging connections between sport and the business community.

“We really hope our local businesses will get behind this initiative and explore where they can support the great work that our volunteer clubs are out there doing every day,” Glenn said.

Local businesses interested in engaging with the hub and volunteers who are able to contribute their time and experience are invited to connect via email at [email protected].

PHOTO: File