Five Wide Bay community groups will benefit from a share of $2.7 million from the Morrison Government to support the work of local volunteers, Federal Member for Wide Bay and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Llew O’Brien announced today.
 
The grants awarded are between $1,000 and $5,000, and will enable local organisations to better support their volunteers to purchase small equipment, pay fuel, transport and training costs.
 
Mr O’Brien said volunteers are an integral part of Wide Bay society, especially during times of adversity.
 
“On Saturday December 5 we mark International Volunteer Day, and celebrate the tireless work of volunteers, charities, and community groups across Wide Bay as they continue to support the vulnerable and strengthen our local communities,” Mr O’Brien said.
 
“Communities in Wide Bay have been significantly affected this year, firstly by the prolonged drought, followed by the bushfires in Noosa and the Gympie region, then the widespread effects of the coronavirus pandemic, and now bushfires ravaging Fraser Island.
 
“As well as providing direct support and assistance, volunteers in community groups also play important roles in strengthening our communities and reducing isolation through social programs and events. 
 
“I’m pleased to support the Morrison Government’s grant funding for Noosa’s PTSD Dogs Australia, Maryborough State High School P&C Association, Kilkivan Performance Horse Association, Permaculture Noosa and the Tansey Show Society in Wide Bay as part of this supplementary grant round.”
 
The organisations will receive the following amounts:

“This additional funding will go a long way in helping even more local organisations and their volunteers to continue their valued work, through what has been a very challenging year,” Mr O’Brien said.
 
Volunteer peak bodies across all states and territories are distributing the funding based on the needs of the sector in each state or territory.
 
The 2020-21 Volunteer Grants round is expected to open mid-2021. Subscribe on the Community Grants Hub to be alerted to this and other grant listings – visit: https://www.communitygrants.gov.au/  
 
For more information on volunteering, visit the Volunteering Australia website https://www.volunteeringaustralia.org/

WELCOME TO WIDE BAY

In the spirit of Australia, I acknowledge all citizens who contribute to making our nation the greatest on earth.

I acknowledge our defence force personnel, past, present, and emerging, for their service to our nation, and particularly those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of Australia.

I also acknowledge the Australian taxpayers who, through their hard work, pay for the infrastructure, health, education, and emergency services that keep our proud nation healthy, safe, and prosperous.