A YOUNG local hockey player has achieved a dream to play for Victoria in the national hockey championships being held in Tasmania with help from the Beechworth Lions Club.

The club held a sell–out sausage sizzle last Saturday outside the IGA store where 13–year–old Grace Brown with her mum Rachael Kerkvliet helped out to serve generous community members.

Lions' member Iris Mannik said helping young people to reach their goals especially when they are state representatives should be a priority for the community.

Grace said helping out at the sausage sizzle had been a great experience in meeting people.

"Everyone has been really generous with donations received too," she said.

With less than 18 days to go, an excited Grace heads to Tasmania at the end of this month for the National Championships being held in Hobart.

Selected into the Victorian Hockey Academy, Grace will play in the Victorian state team in matches between September 28 and October 4.

Rachael said she appreciated the community and Lions Club's unconditional and generous support.

She said help given showed Grace what it takes to make a helpful community where Grace will be able to give back.

"It means everything to us to help Grace get to Tasmania," she said.

The U13 Carnival at the National Championships will be livestreamed at www.livehockey.com.au where there may be a subscription fee with the event advertised closer to the date.