Central Coast Council is encouraging the community to be a good sport by donating pre-loved sports goods at SportsFest this year – and has appointed the not-for-profit organisation Fair Game Australia to manage the collection and distribution of all donations.

Mayor Jane Smith said there are barriers to participation in sport and recreation in many parts of our community on the Central Coast.

“Living a healthy and active lifestyle doesn’t come easy to all of us,” Mayor Smith said. “For some families, there are limited finances available to invest in suitable sports equipment, clothing and accessories.

“Other challenges are presented through a shortage of money for entry and membership fees, difficulty finding transport to training and match venues, or time-poor families.

“Council is committed to improving the physical and social wellbeing of our community and SportsFest is a great example of how we are working together towards breaking down these barriers, so we can all live an active life.

“So help us to help others, and bring your pre-loved, good condition or nearly-new sports clothing and equipment to SportsFest, where you can donate your goods to an important cause – Fair Game Australia.”

Fair Game Australia aims to create an equitable, healthier and sustainable Australia by distributing the recycled sports equipment for use in disadvantaged communities.

“Through the provision of recycled sports equipment we're able to run fitness and health education programs that reduce the risk of lifestyle related disease, build social cohesion and improve mental well-being,” Nathan Stone, NSW Chair of Fair Game said.

"Fair Game is excited to partner with SportsFest to donate as much recycled sports equipment as possible to charities working in under-serviced communities across the Central Coast and surrounds. If you would like to benefit from this equipment or one of our programs, please reach out via our website."

SportsFest is a family-friendly event, being held this weekend, 22-23 September, from 10am-5pm, at Bateau Bay’s EDSACC sporting precinct on the Central Coast Highway.

This not-to-be-missed event will include interactive sporting activities, come ‘n try sessions, professional demonstrations, live entertainment, market and food stalls and a dedicated Kidz Zone.

SportsFest’s proud partnerships include NSW Office of Sport, Sport NSW, Central Coast Academy of Sport and official media partners, Star 104.5 FM.

For more information visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/SportsFest or facebook.com/SportsFestCentralCoast