AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT GRANTS SUPPORT VOLUNTEERS IN NOOSA

Several volunteer groups in the Noosa region have been awarded funding from the Australian Government’s Volunteer Grants Program, Federal Member for Wide Bay Llew O’Brien announced today.

 “The Volunteer Grants Program supports the important work volunteers undertake in community groups, providing funding for equipment and training that makes their work easier, safer, and more enjoyable,” Mr O’Brien said.

“My office received more than 70 expressions of interest seeking around $285,000 in funding for many worthy projects to support the work of volunteers in the community. However, only $66,225 was available in this funding round.”

Successful Volunteer Grant recipients include the Pomona District Meals on Wheels, where the $5,000 they received helping to meet the fuel costs of their volunteer delivery drivers.

“The Meals on Wheels volunteers make an incredible difference in the lives of their clients and it’s important that the Australian Government assists in alleviating some of the costs these volunteers incur using their own vehicles to deliver meals and to keep people connected with their community, Mr O’Brien said.

The Cooroora Historical Society, also known as the Noosa Museum at Pomona, received $2,500 to buy equipment to help keep their volunteers safe and comfortable while they perform their roles.  The Museum has an incredible collection of memorabilia and photographs and is open to the public and to researchers interested in Noosa’s history.

The Noosa District Basketball Association at Noosaville was awarded a $2,500 grant, which is being used to purchase office and computer equipment to support their volunteers who perform various roles leading up to and including game day.

“Every volunteer’s contribution, no matter how big or small, is extraordinary because that person cares enough to serve their community and give of their time, expertise, and resources freely to improve the lives of others. Wide Bay communities would not be the same without them,” Mr O’Brien said.

“Another round of the Australian Government’s Volunteer Grants will open in November 2024. Please contact my office on 4121 2936 if you would like to be notified when this Volunteer Grants round opens.”