Milestone achieved for Capital Field Archers with support from Vikings
Vikings is passionate about fostering and encouraging sport in the Tuggeranong Valley, and one way we put this into action is through the Vikings Bonus Grant program. The grant provides additional funding to Affiliated Clubs to assist with large infrastructure and development projects that strengthen community sport.
In April, Capital Field Archers celebrated a major milestone for their club community, completing the restoration of their clubhouse roof with the assistance of a Vikings Bonus Grant and the dedication of club volunteers.
Restoring an important community space
For the past six years, the clubhouse had been operating with only a temporary tarp providing protection from the weather following the club’s relocation. Over time, exposure to harsh conditions caused the tarp to deteriorate, making restoration of the roof increasingly important for the club and its members.
The support received through the Vikings Bonus Grant allowed the club to move forward with the long-awaited project, continuing a longstanding partnership between Capital Field Archers and Vikings since 2011.
Capital Field Archers Secretary James Cunningham said restoring the roof had already made a significant difference for the club, with the upgraded facility providing much-needed weather protection during recent club activities. During the club’s last shoot, members were able to continue activities indoors when bad weather moved through the area.
“It meant a great deal to the club members to have the roof restored as it now provides full weather protection,” he said.
The importance of volunteers
The restoration project would not have been possible without the support and commitment of club volunteers, including new member and professional builder Dan, who offered to help lead the reconstruction works.
Dan coordinated the procurement of materials and supervised the rebuild, with club members coming together over a weekend to assist wherever needed. In total, 12 members volunteered their time to help rebuild the structure, with James describing the working bee as a rewarding experience that reflected the strong sense of community within the club.
“The energy was high and we all had a lot of fun and satisfaction working together as a team,” he said.
Looking ahead
The upgraded clubhouse will now support future club activities and major events, including the Southern NSW Branch Shoot later this year, which attracts competitors from across the ACT and Southern New South Wales.
Looking ahead, Capital Field Archers is already planning further improvements to the clubhouse, including connecting roof drainage to water tanks and developing a kitchen and serving area to enhance catering and event facilities.
Capital Field Archers continues to provide opportunities for the Canberra community to get involved in archery through regular shoots, competitions and club activities, with new members encouraged to connect through the club’s website or Facebook page.