Dubbo Athletics Centre head coach Mark Penman said the money would purchase a shade marquee, laptop and race clock.

“With the climate here in Dubbo the shade sails are an essential addition to our facilities,” he said. 

“Venues like Homebush all have timing clocks like the one we will now have, so that will bring Dubbo inline with top facilities.

ALSO READ The Dubbo Little Athletics club wants you to have a run, throw and a jump at Barden Park

“The laptop will allow us to record results as efficiently as possible which will help improve the feedback we give to our athletes. All the purchases are essential to make our club better.”

Funds for the grants are raised through the sale of specially-marked chiller bags designed by Aussie kids.

For every bag sold, 25 cents is directed to the Coles Little Athletics Community Fund to provide sport equipment grants.

Coles State General Manager Emma Bridges said Coles was delighted to provide grants to help the Dubbo Little Athletics Centre.

“Thanks to our customers who have bought our range of chiller bags at Coles stores, we are able to provide around $360,000 in grants for Little Athletics centres around Australia to help them purchase equipment to support activities such as High Jump, Discus, Hurdles and the various running events,” she said.

“We know the gear they purchase will play a critical part to support Dubbo’s volunteers and young athletes.”