Top Australian sports stars today united to launch the 2007 Telstra Assistance Fund, which will provide a record $1.5 million in equipment and materials to local sports and community clubs across the country.

The Telstra Assistance Fund covers football, Surf Lifesaving, Rugby League, swimming, athletics and AFL.

Socceroo Mark Bresciano joined AFL star Luke Ball, Swimmer Matt Welsh, shot put and discus thrower Scott Martin, Ironman Zane Holmes and rugby league player Mark Gasnier to urge clubs from their respective sports to apply for the 2007 Telstra Assistance Fund.

Speaking on behalf of the group, swimmer Matt Welsh said the program would provide a major boost to all clubs.

“Local sporting clubs need as much help as they can get, and the support from Telstra will be invaluable. You’d be mad not to apply.

“By providing a massive $1.5 million in equipment for our clubs, Telstra is helping develop Australian sport at the most fundamental level – the grass roots,” Mr Welsh said.

Telstra continues to support a diverse range of Australia’s sporting codes at all levels, from the grass roots to the elite.

The initiative is in its fifth year and has delivered over $3.5 million worth of much needed equipment to more than 2000 clubs under Telstra’s sponsorship portfolio.

All clubs can find more information about the Telstra Assistance Fund and apply online at http://www.beinvolved.telstra.com/taf/taf_football.aspx.