Get bids in for up to $20,000 in community funds
A FUNDING programme which provides as much as $20,000 for non-profit community groups to undertake capital projects is up and running again, I'm calling for applications.We are now embarking on Round 3 of the Stronger Communities Programme, an initiative of the Liberal National Government, which has provided funding for 28 different community groups throughout the Dawson electorate over the past two years.The programme provides between $2,500 and $20,000 under a 50/50 funding arrangement for small capital projects being undertaken by not-for-profit groups which deliver social benefits in our communities.We are now taking Expressions of Interest, so if you have a project that might fit the bill please call my office on 4944 0662 and we can provide the EOI form and answer other questions.
Childcare centre boosts service with solar
A Mackay childcare centre expects to halve its energy costs thanks to a boost from the Stronger Communities Programme.I congratulated C&K Mackay Children and Family Centre's family support officer Lionel Hardiman, back, and director Tineke Philip on a successful grant of $14,877 for a newly-installed energy-saving solar panel system.
$55,000 boost for community groups
A small business incubator, a school and a long day care centre were all given a boost today with the announcement by Federal Member for Dawson George Christensen that almost $55,000 in Stronger Communities Programme grants had been approved.I joined Split Spaces general manager Jarryd Townson to congratulate him on his successful application.Jarryd is creating a business incubator here in Mackay called Split Spaces which will provide support services and collaboration for start-ups and small businesses, and I was happy to recommend his project for funding of $19,800 under the Stronger Communities Programme.This funding is just the beginning of the project for Mr Townson, but it will allow for the renovation and fit-out of a co-working space as well as provide some office equipment and kitchen facilities.
Church benefits from $9,000 grant
THE Bowen Christian Outreach Centre has been undergoing a progressive transformation as the pastor and parishioners work to repair their aging building and I was happy to present them with a grant to help with that process.I had the pleasure of presenting Pastor Phillip Watego with a $9,398 Stronger Communities Programme grant which will be used to replace a section of the roof which is rusting and beyond repair.The Bowen Christian Outreach Centre is utilised for far more than weekly worship, with people gathering for ladies meetings, family activity nights, mens’ breakfasts and community barbeques.
Centre for the homeless gets $20,000 boost
THE long held vision of creating a Drop In Centre for the homeless in Mackay took another step forward today with the presentation of a grant for $20,000 under the Stronger Communities Programme.Mackay Drop In Centre (MDIC) will construct a purpose-built building in partnership with Salvation Army Mackay to provide a day service for homeless people of Mackay.I recommended this project for the maximum funding available under the Liberal National Government’s Stronger Communities Programme, and I’m thrilled to see that it’s been approved.
Funds to help boost Bowen tourism group
THE group that keeps Bowen on the tourism map welcomed the news of more than $5,500 in funding under the Stronger Communities Programme this week.Bowen Tourism & Business do invaluable work from their Big Mango base to promote this beautiful region and all its benefits.I was happy to recommend the group for funding to go towards upgrading IT and promotional equipment as whatever they do to promote this region benefits everyone.
Funds up for grabs: Get applications in
COMMUNITY groups who are planning to apply for grants under Round 2 of the Liberal National Government’s Stronger Communities Programme are reminded to get their applications in by March 11.I am keen to ensure the money goes to worthy causes.There are grants of between $5000 and $20,000 to fund small capital projects which deliver social benefits, so please make sure your group is in with a chance for a share of the $150,000 available across my electorate.