VOLUNTEER GRANTS HELP MARYBOROUGH COMMUNITY GROUPS
Community groups in Maryborough have received funding from the Australian Government to purchase equipment and provide support for their volunteers, Federal Member for Wide Bay Llew O’Brien announced today.
“The Australian Government’s 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.
Successful Volunteer Grant recipients include the Maryborough Sporting Car Club, which received $4,000 to purchase safety equipment, radios, fire extinguishers, uniforms, and training courses for their volunteers at the Maryborough Speedway.
“The speedway is a huge asset to Maryborough with their calendar of different motor sport events,” Mr O’Brien said.
“Drivers and spectators come from across the country to participate in racing at the Maryborough Speedway, which is great for the local economy.”
The Maryborough Regional Arts Council received $3,000 to purchase accounting software and train their volunteers in how to use it, and to update their website to promote the Queensland Conservatorium Partnership Concert Program.
“The Arts Council do a wonderful job bringing performing artists and musicians to Maryborough for everyone to enjoy,” Mr O’Brien said.
“The work their volunteers do makes it possible for Maryborough residents to experience critically acclaimed movies, music, and performances from around the world.”
Maryborough’s Proud Mary’s Association’s grant of $1,500 has been used to purchase display equipment, and to support their volunteers with fuel reimbursements and OH&S training.
“The Proud Mary’s have a long history of promoting Maryborough and its rich history,” Mr O’Brien said.
“The Proud Mary’s are responsible for uncovering the link between Maryborough and the Mary Poppins author P. L. Travers, and they were integral in raised the funds for the iconic Mary Poppins statue in Richmond Street.”
“Their volunteers also act as Flusher Ushers at the Cistern Chapel, Maryborough’s quirky public art installation.”
“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.
“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.”
“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.”
