At a Cairns Taipans Youth Clinic at Bendigo Bank Basketball Centre this morning, Ms Bligh announced a $350,000 three-year State Government sponsorship of the Taipans, writes Emma Greenwood in The Cairns Post.

"It's been a tough 12 months for the club and I know how hard the Cairns community fought to keep their team on the court," she said.

"But it's their efforts off the court that make the Taipans more than just a basketball team and my Government is proud to support them as they prepare for their 2009-10 NBL season."

Under the deal the Taipans will become ambassadors for the government's healthy living programs.

"The players will help us promote important messages about healthy food choices and regular physical activity, encouraging positive behaviour in junior sport and working with indigenous communities and children and youth at risk."

Photo courtesy of The Cairns Post