VOLUNTEERS IN MURGON GET FUNDING BOOST
Federal Member for Wide Bay Llew O’Brien announced today that four community groups in Murgon received funding from the Australian Government’s 2023-24 Volunteer Grant Program.
“The Australian Government’s Volunteer Grant 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.
The Cherbourg Historical Precinct Group received $3,000 to purchase sewing machines and overlockers to support the volunteers who meet regularly to learn textile techniques and produce craft items for sale at the Ration Shed Gallery.
“The volunteer group use textiles, ceramics, and other craft materials to produce art works that tell the story of living in Cherbourg under the Aboriginal Protection Act,” Mr O’Brien said.
The Murgon Mustangs Junior Rugby League Club also received $3,000 to upskill their volunteers with first aid and CPR training, and to reimburse volunteers for the costs they incur when applying for a Blue Card to allow them to work with children.
“Sport is an important part of life in the South Burnett, and the volunteers who mentor and train our young athletes do an amazing job nurturing the stars of the future,” Mr O’Brien said.
The South Burnett PCYC also does fantastic work engaging with young people and helping them to develop to their full potential, and they will use their $2,750 Volunteer Grant for volunteer training and background screening.
“All the PCYC volunteers undergo quite rigorous induction and backgrounds checks, and the grant will help to upskill the volunteers who run the programs and activities that address the specific needs of the South Burnett community,” Mr O’Brien said.
The volunteers at the Creative Country Association received $3,895 to purchase cleaning and outdoor equipment to help maintain the 55 Million Years Ago museum and gallery.
“The Association were able to purchase a robotic vacuum/mop, robotic window cleaner, and a battery operated leaf blower with their grant, reducing the manual labour needed to keep the facility looking good for visitors and for the community activities that take place there,” Mr O’Brien said.
“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.”
“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.”
