Volunteer Grant success for seven Wide Bay community groups

14/5/2019

Volunteer Grant success for seven Wide Bay community groups

Community groups in Goomeri, Murgon, Gundiah, Gympie and Tiaro have shared in grants totalling almost $31,700, as Federal Member for Wide Bay Llew O’Brien recognises the valuable work of volunteers. 

Grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 will be provided through a $20 million Volunteer Grants program to help 34 Wide Bay community organisations with needs including buying equipment, paying fuel costs, and training volunteers.
 
Seven of the organisations in Wide Bay receiving grants today are:

• Goomeri Pumpkin Festival – $4,900.00 towards fit-out and equipment for an office for volunteers.
• Tiaro State School P&C Association – $3,691.56 towards a shade marquee, pop up banner and flags to help with fundraising.
• Graham House Community Centre – $5,000.00 towards ongoing training for volunteers.

• Gundiah State School P&C Association – $5,000.00 for equipment including folding tables and chairs, storage containers, a freezer and gardening equipment.
• Tiaro & District Landcare – $3,100.00 for a shade marquee, fuel costs and stationery.

• Mary Valley Arts Link – $5,000.00 towards lightweight display boards for hanging artwork.
• Hope Reins – $5,000.00 towards volunteer shirts, first aid training, storage shelving, tools and a tool shed, and a washing machine.

 
“Wide Bay simply would not be the same without volunteers, who are the lifeblood of our communities and deliver important services, support and assistance,” Mr O’Brien said.
 
“The energy, expertise and time our volunteers give represents what Australian communities are all about – offering a helping hand.
 
“I am glad to be able to extend a helping hand in return with this funding from the Coalition Government so they can continue their work and build a stronger, safer community.”
 
Mr O’Brien said volunteering also had a significant economic benefit to local communities.
 
“The enormous value of volunteering is estimated at $290 billion per year. Australia’s 8.7 million volunteers and their organisations are the backbone of community life,” he said.
 
“The Morrison Government’s strong economic management is why we can afford to provide the essential services Australians rely on and support the good work of our volunteers.” 
 

ENDS

High-resolution images available upon request.